Pep Guardiola has hit out at Jack Grealish as the winger continues to struggle to break into the Manchester City lineup.
Ever since he joined City in the summer of 2021 as part of a then British record transfer, Grealish been part of big highs and lows at the club.
The Englishman was an integral part of the City team that won the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League in the 2022/23 season, but now finds himself struggling to start for the Premier League champions.
And now, City manager Guardiola has issued a rallying call to his player as he has named the one thing that Grealish must do if he is to get back into the starting lineup.
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On Saturday, City seemed to prove that they have put their poor run of form behind them as they secured their second successive win with a 4-1 victory over West Ham United at the Etihad Stadium.
Despite Erling Haaland netting a brace in the match, summer signing Savinho was the star of the match, playing a key role in three of his side's goals.
And post-match Guardiola explained that, in order to start for Man City, Grealish would not only need improve his own performances, but he must also prove he is better than the Brazilian.
Explaining how Grealish can find his way back into the team, the City boss stated: "It’s easy. As much as he looks at himself, he will see the competition. He has to compete with himself.
"Savinho is in better shape and everything than Jack and that’s why I played Savinho.
"I want the Jack that won the Treble. I want it. But I try to be honest with myself for that. What happened with Savinho’s delivery in the box? It’s higher than the other wingers in that position.
"And they have to fight. You can say, “OK, it’s unfair”. If you think that, then it’s fine. But you have to prove, “I’m going to fight with Savinho, to deserve to play in that position”. Every single day, and every single week and every single month."
Topics: Manchester City, Pep Guardiola, Jack Grealish, Premier League, Erling Haaland, West Ham United, Champions League
Ben McCrum