Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has issued a strong challenge to Jack Grealish, urging the England international to rediscover the form that made him an instrumental part of City’s historic treble-winning campaign in 2022/23. Since his £100 million move from Aston Villa in 2021, Grealish has been a key player for City, but this season has seen him fall down the pecking order, largely due to the impressive performances of summer signing Savinho.
The Brazilian youngster, who arrived from City’s French sister club Troyes, has quickly become a standout figure in Guardiola’s squad. Savinho’s contributions—one goal and eight assists across 25 appearances in all competitions—have been pivotal, earning him a starting role over Grealish, who has managed just two assists in 19 outings this season.
Grealish’s Diminished Role
Grealish’s reduced playing time has been evident in recent matches. In City’s commanding 4-1 win over West Ham, Savinho started and delivered a solid performance. He also scored his first goal for the club in their 2-0 victory against Leicester City in December. In contrast, Grealish was an unused substitute at King Power Stadium and played only six minutes as a substitute against West Ham.
After the West Ham game, Guardiola made his position clear, stating that Savinho’s form has given him the edge over Grealish. “It’s easy,” Guardiola said. “As much as he [Grealish] looks at himself, he will see the competition, and he has to compete. Savinho is in better shape and everything than Jack, and that’s why I played Savinho.”
A Call to Fight
Guardiola hasn’t shied away from calling out Grealish, emphasizing the need for the 28-year-old to prove his worth. “Do I want the Jack that won the treble? Yes, I want it—but I try to be honest with myself for that,” Guardiola said. “They have to fight. You can say it’s unfair. OK, if you think that, then it’s fine, but you have to prove [to me], ‘OK, I’m going to fight with Savinho, to deserve to play in that position,’ every single day, every single week, and every single month.”
This challenge is a reminder of the expectations placed on Grealish, who has won three Premier League titles, a UEFA Champions League, and an FA Cup during his time at City. Guardiola wants to see the same drive and determination that made him such a key player in their treble-winning season.
Faith in Grealish
Despite his criticism, Guardiola has expressed his faith in Grealish’s abilities and his desire to see him return to his best. “I fought a lot for him, fought a lot to be here,” Guardiola revealed. “I know that he can do it because I saw him. I saw your level and I want that, every single training session and every single game.”
Guardiola highlighted the performances of Savinho, whose consistency has set a benchmark for Grealish to meet. “Against Everton he was brilliant, then the goal at Leicester, and [Saturday] he made a goal and two unbelievable assists. That is top. That’s why he played,” Guardiola explained.
Manchester City’s Recent Form
City’s current campaign has been marked by inconsistency. After a difficult run of nine defeats in 13 games late last year, they have managed to stabilize somewhat, climbing to sixth in the Premier League. They now sit two points behind Chelsea in fourth and 12 points adrift of league leaders Liverpool.
With crucial fixtures ahead, including an FA Cup clash with Salford City, a Premier League matchup against Brentford, and a Champions League showdown with Paris Saint-Germain on January 22, Guardiola will need every member of his squad performing at their best.
The Road Ahead for Grealish
For Grealish, the message is clear: he must fight for his place in the team. With Savinho setting the standard, Grealish has no choice but to raise his game if he wants to regain the trust of his manager and a regular spot in the starting XI.
Guardiola’s challenge is not just about competition within the squad but also about pushing Grealish to fulfill his potential. The manager’s demand for excellence is a hallmark of his leadership style, and it has brought out the best in many players over the years. Now, it is Grealish’s turn to respond.
Conclusion
Pep Guardiola’s call for Jack Grealish to recapture his best form is a reminder of the high standards at Manchester City. With the emergence of Savinho as a strong contender for a starting role, Grealish faces a crucial test of character and ability.
As City prepares for a critical stretch of the season, the spotlight will be on Grealish to see if he can rise to the challenge. With Guardiola’s backing and his own proven talent, the stage is set for the England international to prove his worth and reclaim his place as a key figure in City’s pursuit of success.
