Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has encouraged Jack Grealish to recapture the form he displayed during the 2022/2023 campaign when the Cityzens did the treble and battle for his place in the starting lineup.
In that sensational treble-winning season, Grealish made 50 appearances, contributing to City’s victories in the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League. He also registered five goals and provided 11 assists. However, he has struggled to replicate that level of performance this season, managing just six starts in his last 14 Premier League appearances.
The England international was also left out of the starting XI for the defending champions’ 4-1 win over West Ham United on Saturday, coming on in the 84th minute as a substitute, while Savinho started and assisted both of Erling Haaland’s goals in that game.
“Savinho is in better shape and everything than Jack, and that’s why I played Savinho [against West Ham].
“Do I want the Jack that won the Treble? Yeah, I want it, but I try to be honest with myself for that.
“They have to fight. You can say it’s unfair. OK, if you think that, then it’s fine, but you have to prove [to me], ‘OK, I’m going to fight with Savinho, to deserve to play in that position’, every single day, every single week and every single month.”
Grealish’s playing time this season has been affected by his struggles with injuries. The 29-year-old is yet to score in 14 Premier League matches, with his last goal for City was over a year ago, in December 2023 against Crystal Palace.
“Two weeks ago, Jack was injured, and he needs rhythm and to play but players need training,” Guardiola added. “I don’t have any doubt about the quality of Jack or any of these players. But they have to, right now be at your best.
“I fought a lot for him, fought a lot to be here. I know that he can do it because I saw him. I saw his level and I want that, every single training session and every single game.”
Olaoluwa is a dedicated sports writer and passionate football enthusiast with two years of experience. Known for his keen analysis and commitment to the game, his work reflects a deep love for football, blending strategic insight with the emotional moments that make it a global passion. He is focused on honing his skills and consistently aims to inspire and engage readers through every article he writes.
