“I try to be honest” – Pep Guardiola issues new verdict on Jack Grealish’s Manchester City behaviour
Pep Guardiola Reaffirms Faith in Jack Grealish Despite Limited Game Time at Manchester City
Pep Guardiola continues to stand by Jack Grealish, emphasizing the winger’s strong performances in training and reaffirming his belief in the player, despite his limited role at Manchester City this season.
Grealish, who has struggled with injuries and inconsistent form, has played only 605 minutes across 16 Premier League appearances in the 2023-24 campaign. His inability to replicate his treble-winning heroics from last season has left him on the fringes of Guardiola’s squad, with the £100 million signing often overlooked in recent matches, including City’s victories over Nottingham Forest and Brighton.
Speculation Grows Over Grealish’s Future at Manchester City
As Guardiola continues to evolve his squad, speculation is mounting over Grealish’s long-term future at the Etihad. Reports suggest that City’s summer restructuring—led by incoming sporting director Hugo Viana—could see Grealish depart the club at the end of the season, especially as the reigning champions battle to secure a top-four finish and UEFA Champions League qualification.
The England international has also faced setbacks on the international stage. Left out of Gareth Southgate’s Euro 2024 squad last summer, Grealish’s hopes of forcing his way back into contention for the 2026 FIFA World Cup were further dampened when new England manager Thomas Tuchel omitted him from his first squad selection last week.
Guardiola Backs Grealish but Highlights Fierce Competition
Despite his reduced game time, Guardiola remains supportive of Grealish and hinted that opportunities could still come his way during City’s Premier League and FA Cup run-in.
“Against Plymouth, he played really well,” Guardiola said in a recent press conference. “But at the same time, you have Jeremy (Doku), who was outstanding against Spurs, and Savio, who is so active. This is what Jack realizes—it’s about competition.”
Guardiola reiterated that Grealish’s omission from recent starting lineups is not personal, but rather a matter of squad depth and form.
“People sometimes think it’s personal. But after all these years, I still hear people say, ‘If I play, I’m good; if I don’t, I’m not.’ It happens at every club. But it’s not about that—I want the best for Jack,” Guardiola explained.
With Manchester City’s FA Cup quarter-final clash against Bournemouth next on the schedule following the international break, Grealish may have a crucial chance to prove himself as City look to salvage silverware in what remains of their season.
