Jack Grealish’s 2024/25 season has been far from the comeback many anticipated. After a summer of rest, hopes were high for the England international to return to top form—but injuries and inconsistency have derailed that ambition.
Instead, Pep Guardiola has leaned on the explosive talents of Jeremy Doku and Savinho, who have brought more direct threat and creativity to City’s wings. Their pace, dribbling, and goal contributions have pushed Grealish further down the pecking order.
In 22 appearances this season, Grealish has recorded just 2 goals and 4 assists. By comparison, Doku has tallied 6 goals and 7 assists in the same number of matches, while Savinho has provided 2 goals and 8 assists over 30 games. More than stats, it’s the impact Doku and Savinho bring that sets them apart—something Grealish has struggled to replicate.
Guardiola recently addressed the situation, saying before City’s FA Cup match against Leyton Orient:
“I’m so sorry they don’t get the minutes that maybe they deserve, but the contributions from Jeremy [Doku] or Savinho have been massive. It’s not personal. I know Jack’s qualities. But right now, others are offering more.”
He also praised Savinho’s growth, noting his recent all-around performance, especially in City’s game against Arsenal.
With new signing Omar Marmoush and young talents like Oscar Bobb also in the mix, the competition for attacking roles is fierce. Grealish, once a key figure in City’s historic 2022/23 treble-winning season, now finds himself needing to prove he still belongs.
The message is clear: if Grealish wants more minutes, he’ll have to earn them. Past achievements won’t guarantee future starts.
