Jack who laughs, Jack who cries. In one year, Jack Grealish lost his smile and his joy of life. Happy as a kid after the Manchester City treble and in particular the victory in the Champions League, the Englishman had celebrated for several days, he who had abused the drink. A few months later, he became another player and another man. Very marked by the burglary which took place at his home at the end of 2023, the former Aston Villa admitted that he was “devastated”. This didn’t help matters since on the ground, things weren’t really going well before that.
A complicated season
A potential starter last year, he had to deal with new competition this season. Less influential, the Birmingham native played 23 matches in all competitions, including 16 as a starter. He scored 3 goals and provided 2 assists. But this is not enough for Pep Guardiola, who expects much more from his player, who was also injured on Tuesday evening during the FA Cup match against Luton Town. Back in the eleven after his injury exit against Copenhagen in the Champions League, he only lasted 37 minutes before giving way to Jérémy Doku.
After the match, his coach gave his news: “it seems to be a recurrence of the groin injury, it’s the second time. I hope this time he recovers well. I haven’t spoken to the doctor, but I think he was complaining a little about his groin. He felt great, but unfortunately he got injured again. The season was difficult for him. He will have to recover well and help us when he is able to return. We do not know more about the nature of his injury or the duration of his absence. What is certain is that he will have to show something else.
His place for the Euro is in danger
Monday at a press conference, Guardiola warned: “he’s the same player, he has the same manager and the way we play hasn’t changed. It’s just the way he behaved. That’s all the difference. I said from day one that we needed him. He has a special quality for our team. But it all depends on him. I hope he succeeds in his last three months. I can’t give the players three or four matches to find their rhythm. They have to find the rhythm to play 20 minutes or 90 minutes. The Spaniard does not intend to give him any gifts.
Grealish will have to show something else, especially since it is not only at the club that his performances raise questions. THE Mirror explains that Gareth Southgate and his staff are closely following his case and are concerned. Especially since the competition is fierce for his position. The English media cites the names of Bukayo Saka and Phil Foden, to start in the starting lineup. Behind, Marcus Rashford, Jarrod Bowen and James Maddison will have their chances while Cole Palmer and Anthony Gordon, push behind for a place in the Three Lions squad. THE Mirror indicates that Grealish will have to fight to keep his place, he who is not guaranteed to participate in Euro 2024. An additional threat therefore hangs over the 28-year-old player.
