After back-to-back masterclass performances against both Wolves and Manchester United, Jack Grealish was at his brilliant best once again in Manchester City’s 5-0 thumping of FC Copenhagen in the Champions League.
The England international’s incredible dribbling and chance creation was in full flow on Wednesday night, as he walked away as the official UEFA Player of the Match.
In the second-half in particular, the former Aston Villa superstar stood out as Manchester City’s stand-out player.
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For Julian Alvarez’s goal, the 27-year-old produced perhaps his greatest highlight of the game, ghosting past a series of defenders to put the ball on a plate for Riyad Mahrez to find the vacant attacker in the box to score a tap-in.
After yet another sparkling display in sky blue, Jack Grealish reflected on a fruitful evening for himself personally.
“I loved it," the forward opened with a huge smile on his face.
"Playing in the Champions League at the Etihad (Stadium) is always great.
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"Three wins out of three to top the group. It was a great night. I'm loving it,” he said.
Grealish continued, “My last three or four games I feel back to myself.
"I am playing more with that freedom and confidence.
"It would help if I got on the scoresheet, I was desperate tonight, but it's all about enjoying it and winning. When the luck isn't with you…
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"I've played a lot of games recently so I'm thankful to the manager for that. I'm playing with a smile on my face and feel like I'm settling in now.”
Another winger who had a game to remember was Riyad Mahrez, getting on the scoresheet via a well-taken penalty before setting up Julian Alvarez’s first goal in the Champions League.
After Pep Guardiola implied that the Algeria international captain had been out of form at the start of the season, the 31-year-old showed signs of returning back to his usual self on Wednesday night.
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Reflecting on his, as well as Manchester City’s, fine display after the contest, Mahrez said, “It's good when we have the ball and are in the opponent's box. We try to create chances like we always do."
"The score is deserved and is good for the next game. Nice to score goals and to help the team to win as well.
"There has always been competition (for places), maybe less so now but it is good."
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With both Jack Grealish and Riyad Mahrez shining against FC Copenhagen, their encouraging showings only bode for well for City who prepare themselves to face Southampton on Saturday afternoon.
Topics: Jack Grealish, Manchester City, Premier League, Champions League, Football