Pep Guardiola has reignited tensions with the English FA over Jack Grealish’s selection for the England squad, delivering some pointed responses that questioned the decision-making process of interim England coach Lee Carsley.
Grealish, who has been sidelined for the past three weeks, was unexpectedly included in Carsley’s final squad for the upcoming Nations League matches against Greece and the Republic of Ireland. Carsley claimed Grealish had been training for two days, intending to evaluate his condition upon arrival with the squad. He also asserted that England had coordinated with clubs regarding their called-up players.
However, Guardiola firmly disputed this, stating Grealish had not trained outside prior to Carsley’s remarks, making it clear he was less than pleased. “This is a question for the manager of the UK [England],” Guardiola remarked repeatedly, casting doubt on the communication from England’s side.
When questioned about Grealish’s condition, Guardiola responded sharply: “No [Carsley didn’t talk to him]. It is his decision. For the last 17 days, [Grealish] didn’t train once. Today was the first training and trained 20 minutes. This is the reality.“
Guardiola later explained that while Grealish had trained indoors for two days as part of his recovery, he was uncertain if his player would be ready for England’s matches. Nonetheless, he acknowledged Grealish’s own willingness to join the national team. “I’m always pleased for players to go – when they are fit,” Guardiola noted. “And when they haven’t struggled for the last one, two, three, four weeks. I’m more than satisfied for them to play.”
The tension in Guardiola’s tone, however, suggested he felt Grealish was far from ready. “He was in the gym for a few minutes over the last two days. It’s a question for the manager from the UK – I’m not involved,” he reiterated, emphasizing the extent of Grealish’s limited training.
“They can select who they want. All I’d say is the day after Wolves, he was injured, 17 days out and today [Friday] was the first training with the team.”
Guardiola also detailed Grealish’s setbacks, mentioning his challenges with injuries and how they’ve disrupted his rhythm. “He has to be fit to play. Not only Jack – there are many players this happens to – this is the reality.”
Further clarifying Grealish’s situation, Guardiola said, “Jack trained today and believes he can help us – I’m not the guy to say you cannot go. But for my team tomorrow [vs Brighton] he’s not fit – he cannot play. All I can say is that for a couple of days over two weeks he didn’t train but the people from England believe he can help. So go.”
In other squad news, Guardiola provided an update on Nathan Ake, who was left out of the Netherlands squad after staying on the bench against Sporting. While Ake is reportedly “getting better,” Guardiola did not confirm his participation in the upcoming Brighton game. “He’s getting better. Not fully fit, but getting better,” he said.
