‘Please never ever doubt the quality that Jack Grealish has!’ – Pep Guardiola backs his struggling star
Pep Guardiola Defends Jack Grealish Amid Another Injury-Plagued Season
Pep Guardiola has publicly backed Jack Grealish as the £100 million winger endures another frustrating, stop-start season at Manchester City.
Now in his fourth campaign at the Etihad, Grealish has yet to fully establish consistency since his high-profile move from Aston Villa. After struggling in his debut season, he found his stride in his second year, playing a crucial role in City’s historic treble-winning campaign. However, injuries have since hampered his progress, limiting his impact last season and continuing to disrupt his form this year.
With City expected to undergo a squad overhaul in the summer, speculation has emerged about Grealish’s future. Despite this, Guardiola insists the England international remains firmly in his plans.
Guardiola Backs Grealish’s Quality Amid Limited Game Time
When asked whether Grealish had been reduced to a cup player, Guardiola dismissed the notion, pointing to the winger’s injury struggles.
“Jack played at Leyton Orient and played really well. Then he played against Real Madrid—Real Madrid is not a friendly game, right? After 20 minutes, he was out injured. That’s what has happened this season.”
With summer arrival Savinho and the dynamic Jeremy Doku excelling in wide positions, Grealish has found himself further down the pecking order. However, Guardiola made it clear that his absence from the lineup is due to fitness issues rather than a lack of ability.
“The reason he hasn’t played much is because he hasn’t been able to. He has had niggles or problems. Like tomorrow, I don’t know if he will be ready. To play in a game, you have to be there.”
Guardiola: “Never Doubt Jack’s Quality”
Despite Grealish’s limited contributions, Guardiola offered a strong defense of the 28-year-old’s ability.
“Please, never, never, ever doubt the quality that Jack has,” he insisted.
However, statistics highlight his struggles for game time. Grealish has started just six of City’s 27 Premier League matches this season—far fewer than his fellow wingers. Phil Foden and Savinho have both started 17 times, while Doku has 11 starts. Even January signing Omar Marmoush has quickly earned five starts.
Guardiola explained that Grealish’s inability to build momentum has been down to repeated setbacks.
“He hasn’t been here because of problems. He hasn’t played three games in a row. He played against Nottingham, played well, and then got injured again in training,” Guardiola revealed.
“They aren’t major injuries, but he cannot make a big effort and sprint repeatedly. That’s the only issue—nothing else.”
Will Grealish Be Fit for the FA Cup?
With City set to face Plymouth Argyle in the FA Cup, Grealish’s availability remains uncertain. Asked if he would be fit for the tie, Guardiola remained cautious.
“We will see today. I do not know yet.”
While Guardiola continues to back his player, Grealish faces a crucial period ahead as he looks to regain fitness and prove he can still be a key figure in City’s plans.
