Kalvin Phillips may have joined Manchester City, but he reminded the Elland Road faithful he will always be one of them.
Upon completing his move from Leeds, the midfielder posted a lengthy message on his social media channels and reserved special praise for former boss Marcelo Bielsa.
The 26-year-old put pen-to-paper on a six-year deal with Pep Guardiola’s side in a £45million transfer.
Phillips made a total of 234 senior appearances across eight seasons for Leeds after joining the club as a youth player at age of 14.
He was, however, targeted by Guardiola as a long-term replacement for Fernandinho, who has headed back to his homeland in Brazil, joining boyhood club Athletico Paranaense.
“Where do I start?” Phillips wrote on Instagram as his move was made official.
“First of all, I would like to express what a privilege it has been to play for this amazing club. Since making my debut at 17 it has been a journey any Leeds lad could wish for.
“When I was young, I went to see my first ever Leeds game at [Elland Road]. From that moment I knew that my dream was to put on that white shirt and walk out on that pitch.
“I’d like to thank everyone involved for making Leeds one of the best clubs on earth. Every manager I have played under for showing trust in me and teaching me all I know.
“I’d like to thank Andrea [Radrizzani], Victor [Orta], and Angus [Kinnear] for helping to bring this club back to where it belongs. You guys are a major reason as to why our club is where it is today.”
Phillips then had some special words of praise Marcelo Bielsa, who left his role as manager last season to be replaced by Jesse Marsch.
“I cannot mention Leeds without mentioning one special person – Bielsa. The best manager I have ever come across. He was a man that gave the club life, he gave everyone belief that we were good enough to return to the Premier League after 16 years.
“Not only did you give the club everything, but you also gave me everything I needed to become the person I am today, on and off the field.”
Phillips also went on to thank current manager Marsch, who helped his former side avoid the Premier League drop on the final day of last season.
“And now to Jesse Marsch, what an unbelievable manager, but what an even better person. You came into this club and gave every player belief in a very difficult season and that’s what kept us up. From the bottom of my heart thank you.
“To all my teammates from my debut to my last game thank you for helping a Leeds lad achieve his dream. I wish everyone all the best for the next season.
“Over the last four years me and you boys have shared so many memories, from missing out in the play offs to getting promoted and then surviving relegation. You lot are unbelievable and deserve everything.
“Finally to my family, the fans! I hope you guys understand my decision and will accept that I only want to chase my dreams and test myself against and with the best teams and players on the planet. As a young kid I had so many dreams and still do… but playing for you was the one I’ll never forget.
“You are the best fans in the world. Good luck to everyone at Leeds United. I love you all and will miss you. Never goodbye. I WILL see you soon. MOT.”
Phillips becomes the third arrival at Manchester City after Erling Haaland, who was signed from Borussia Dortmund for £51million, and goalkeeper Stefan Ortega who was drafted in on a free transfer.
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