Jack Grealish has acknowledged that Manchester City are essentially playing knockout football in the Champions League earlier than usual after their 4-2 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain. The loss leaves City in a precarious position, needing to win against Club Brugge next week to keep their hopes of advancing to the next round alive.
City had taken a 2-0 lead in Paris, with Grealish coming off the bench to score and assist, but they ultimately collapsed, allowing PSG to score four goals and leapfrog them in the standings. Grealish emphasized the importance of the upcoming match against Brugge, calling it “a final” for the team as they must win to qualify for the play-off round.
Despite the team’s recent struggles, Grealish remains hopeful, saying, “We’ve been questioned before, and we’ve always come through. Hopefully, we can do it again next week.” He also highlighted the advantage of having the match at the Etihad Stadium, where City can control their own fate without relying on other results.
The defeat in Paris marks the second time in three games that City have squandered a two-goal lead, a worrying trend for a team known for its ability to control matches. Grealish admitted uncertainty about why City have struggled to hold onto leads this season, but he credited PSG for their spirited comeback and stressed the need to focus on winning the crucial upcoming match.
City’s next game against Club Brugge is a must-win as they seek to avoid an early exit from the competition they won in 2023.
