Pep Guardiola Takes Another Jab at Jack Grealish
Jack Grealish has struggled for form this season, and Pep Guardiola wants him to fight for his place in the starting line-up.
Pep Guardiola has issued a clear challenge to Jack Grealish, urging him to recapture the form that made him a key figure in Manchester City's treble-winning campaign. The City manager stressed that Grealish must fight to earn his place in the starting lineup.
During the 2022-23 season, Grealish played 50 matches, contributing five goals and 11 assists to help City secure the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League titles. However, his performances this season have fallen short of those standards. Grealish has started only six of City's 14 Premier League games and has managed just one assist in the competition.
In City's 4-1 victory over West Ham last Saturday, Grealish was benched and only entered the pitch in the 84th minute. Savinho was given the starting role and delivered an impressive performance, providing two assists for Erling Haaland’s goals.
Guardiola explained his decision:
"Savinho is in better shape, and that’s why I chose him against West Ham. Do I want the Jack that won the treble? Of course, I do, but I have to be honest with myself. Players have to fight. If anyone thinks it’s unfair, fine, but they need to show me every day, every week, and every month that they deserve to play in that position."
Grealish's struggles have been compounded by injuries this season, limiting his playing time. In his 14 Premier League appearances, he has created 22 chances but taken only 13 shots without scoring a goal. His last goal for City came over a year ago, against Crystal Palace in December 2023.
Guardiola also highlighted the importance of building momentum:
"Two weeks ago, Jack was injured. He needs rhythm and game time, but players also need training. I have no doubts about his quality or that of any of my players. But right now, they need to be at their best. I fought hard for Jack to be here because I know what he’s capable of. I’ve seen it, and I want that level in every training session and every game."
Guardiola’s message is unmistakable: Grealish must step up, prove his worth, and reclaim the form that made him an indispensable part of Manchester City’s success.
