Pep Guardiola has defended Jack Grealish’s recent night out, insisting the midfielder was free to enjoy his personal time during Manchester City’s two-day break. Pictures surfaced of the England international visiting multiple venues in the northeast, including a social club where he reportedly bought drinks for locals. However, with Grealish enduring a tough season, questions have arisen about his professionalism.
Guardiola made it clear that he only evaluates his players based on their performances in training and matches. He emphasized that Grealish, like all players, has a personal life and is entitled to do what he wants during his free time. However, the City manager also stressed that what truly matters is delivering results when on the pitch.
The 29-year-old has struggled for consistent game time this season, making just 14 starts across all competitions. While injuries have disrupted his rhythm, Grealish appears to have slipped down the pecking order since signing for £100 million four years ago. Guardiola acknowledged the setbacks but expressed hope that Grealish could regain his best form with consistent performances.
His situation could also impact his England future. Having already been left out of the squad for Euro 2024, Grealish’s lack of game time might hurt his chances of impressing newly appointed manager Thomas Tuchel as the World Cup qualifiers approach. Guardiola sympathized with his player’s frustrations but offered no guarantees about a regular starting role.
Adding to the competition, City brought in Omar Marmoush during the January transfer window, further intensifying the battle for places in the squad. The increased depth could make it even harder for Grealish to cement a key role in the team. Guardiola hinted that decisions about his future, along with other squad members, would be evaluated at the end of the season.
Manchester City, after four consecutive Premier League titles, now finds itself fighting for a top-four finish instead of competing for the trophy. Sitting in fourth place, they face a crucial match against third-placed Nottingham Forest on Saturday. Guardiola confirmed that Grealish is fit and in contention to start, having trained well in the past week.
Despite the uncertainties surrounding his future, Guardiola reaffirmed that Grealish remains a City player and that he expects him to contribute in the crucial weeks ahead. However, with key games coming up, the midfielder must prove himself to regain a regular spot in the lineup.
As City aims to secure a Champions League place for next season, Grealish’s performances in the remaining fixtures could determine not only his role at the club but also his international prospects moving forward.