Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola admits he urged Kalvin Phillips to move on this summer.
The England midfielder has battled for minutes at City since last year's move from Leeds United.
On Friday, Guardiola said: “We discussed saying goodbye internally, including a loan, but he has decided to stay here.
“He is a good guy and doesn't complain, he is welcome here."
The manager also said: “He has to be ready and will still be important for us."