Turning your back on Pep Guardiola might just be considered the footballing equivalent of treason.
But this is what Kalvin Phillips has to do if he wants to re-ignite his career at the highest level of the English game.
Phillips appeared to have the world at his feet when he helped England reach the final of the Euros in 2021. He was one of the stars of the show and within 12 months had secured a dream move to Guardiola's English champions. Phillips had his pick of clubs and found it difficult to leave his hometown one in the shape of Leeds, where he had become an iconic figure.
But the lure of playing for the best manager in the world and chance to win big trophies was too strong to resist.
However, the sacrifice turned into a nightmare at the Etihad, where he's found himself shunted onto the sidelines by Guardiola. To such an extent that his situation has become embarrassing.
Phillips was not helped by a troublesome shoulder problem which required surgery last September. He hardly played until a fortnight before the World Cup, before heading to Qatar as part of the England squad.
He had a peripheral role under Gareth Southgate and once the tournament ended everything changed for Phillips.
He headed to New York with friends to indulge in what one source described as "plenty of beers and pizza." The upshot was he returned to Manchester in a condition Guardiola took serious exception to. He jettisoned him from first team training.
It was the start of the end for Phillips.
He has started just two games since, with Guardiola pinning all his faith in Rodri instead. Even more astonishingly, since joining City in a £50m deal Phillips has still not started a single league game.
Even when Guardiola gives Rodri a rest, Phillips still finds himself in his customary position of sitting on the bench.
The writing is now on the wall in big capital letters. Guardiola remains as tough as old boots when it comes to his stubborn and uncompromising approach to those he feels have let him down.
But Liverpool could offer Phillips a lifeline.
The Euros will take place next summer and Phillips knows if he stays where he is he will stand little chance of making Southgate's squad.
He has no option but to leave Guardiola's dynasty - and the Spaniard will not even think about standing in his way.
