Pep Guardiola has defended Jack Grealish after the City winger had made a slow start to this season. Grealish was a key part of last season’s treble success but an injury and Jeremy Doku’s sparkling form have kept Grealish out of City’s starting lineup.
Speaking ahead of City’s UEFA Champions League Group G clash with Young Boys the Cuty boss defended Grealish. Guardiola told the assembled media that the England international needed time to find his best form. He said: “I don’t have one second or piece of doubt about Jack and his quality and what he has done for us since he arrived two years ago, and especially last season. He needs rhythm- he’s not like Phil Foden or Bernardo who need two or three training sessions to be ready. He’s incredibly focused to get back and we’re going to use him and we believe he will help us.”
The City manager also told the media that the winger must be ready to seize his opportunity when it’s presented. He added: “He knows and everyone knows there is competition. The group of guys we have, the relationship is beyond exceptional. But they have to convince themselves they are ready. Sooner or later the opportunity comes, and you have to be ready.”
Jack Grealish has started this season slowly after last season’s treble success. He picked up a dead leg after a man-of-the-match performance in City’s 2-1 win over Sheffield United. The injury kept Grealish on the sidelines and he is yet to rediscover his best form since returning from injury.
But as evidenced by last season and from Pep Guardiola’s comments he is still a key member of the Manchester City setup.
Up next for the treble winners is Young Boys where Grealish may get an opportunity to start as City chase their third consecutive group stage win.
