Grealish Benched But Ready to Redeem Himself: Can He Regain Pep’s Trust?
Remember that audacious summer transfer of 2021? Jack Grealish, Manchester City’s record-breaking signing, rocketed straight into the starting lineup, defying Pep Guardiola’s usual cautious approach with new players. But hold on, that wasn’t exactly a vote of confidence. Turns out, City were just desperate! “We needed bodies,” Guardiola might as well have said, with key players returning late after the Euros. Grealish, the fresh face, became the unlikely starter, clocking nine out of ten opening league games.
Fast forward three years, and things have taken a turn. Grealish might be fuming about missing the Euros, but hey, maybe it’s a blessing in disguise! This unexpected break presents a golden opportunity to reclaim his starting spot. Sure, international glory would have been sweeter, but let’s be honest, Grealish needs to impress Guardiola, and fast.
The message is clear: “Get fit, Jack,” Guardiola seems to be saying. Grealish is already sweating it out in sunnier climes, a far cry from the damp English pitches. When City reconvenes for pre-season, he’ll need to be a changed man. Guardiola himself has had a chat – a not-so-subtle nudge about applying himself fully in training. The upcoming season hinges on this – can Grealish prove himself from day one and win back Guardiola’s trust? Only time, and a lot of summer training, will tell.
