Despite having started just one of Manchester City’s last four matches, Jack Grealish is tipped to feature in the starting XI when Aston Villa visit the Etihad on Tuesday, 22 April.
His sole recent start came against Leicester, where he made an instant impact—scoring within two minutes in a 2-0 victory. However, Guardiola’s persistent benching of Grealish, even in goalless matches like the one against Everton, has left fans scratching their heads.
🎙️ Tim Sherwood, speaking on Sky Sports Soccer Saturday, expressed confidence in Grealish starting against his former club:
“I think the manager’s saving him for that one. There’s been a lot of rotation, but I’d be shocked if Jack doesn’t start against Villa—it’s his old club, and he’s still got a lot to prove.”
2024/25 Grealish Season Stats
- Appearances: 30 (15 starts)
- Goals: 3
- Assists: 5
Aston Villa Return on the Cards?
As one of several high-profile players expected to leave Manchester City this summer, Grealish’s future is uncertain. His wages and original £100m transfer fee remain barriers, but Aston Villa, Tottenham, and Newcastle are all being linked with the 29-year-old.
At City, wingers Savinho and Jeremy Doku have often been preferred, while John Stones, Ederson, and Mateo Kovacic could also be part of a broader squad shake-up under Guardiola.
With Kevin De Bruyne expected to end his legendary stint at the Etihad, City face a major transitional period—and Grealish’s role in that evolution seems increasingly limited.
