Jack Grealish’s football journey has been nothing short of a rollercoaster, marked by euphoric highs and testing lows.
Crowned a Premier League champion, sidelined from England’s Euro 2024 squad, and navigating the life-changing experience of fatherhood, Grealish’s past year has been a masterclass in the unpredictability of football and life. Now, as he grapples with reduced playing time at Manchester City, the question looms: can he reclaim his spot as one of the Premier League’s brightest stars?
The Fall from Grace
Just 18 months ago, Grealish was basking in the glory of Manchester City’s historic Treble. His creative link with Erling Haaland was the fulcrum of Pep Guardiola’s side, propelling them to dominance across England and Europe. Yet, the brilliance that defined his 2022-23 campaign has since dimmed, with 2024 proving to be one of the most challenging periods of his career.
A groin injury at the start of the year saw Grealish sidelined for weeks, playing a mere 16 minutes of Premier League football between January and March. At a club like City, where competition for places is as fierce as ever, absence can often mean irrelevance. The emergence of summer signing Savinho, who has impressed with his energy and creativity, only added to Grealish’s woes.
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Pep Guardiola’s Honest Appraisal
Pep Guardiola, ever the perfectionist, has not minced his words when addressing Grealish’s struggles. “I want the Jack that won the Treble,” Guardiola remarked after City’s recent victory over West Ham. “Savinho’s delivery in the box is higher than the other wingers. They have to fight. Every single day, every single week, every single month.”
Guardiola’s tough-love approach underscores his belief in Grealish’s potential. But in a squad overflowing with talent, belief alone won’t secure a starting berth.
England Snub Adds to the Pain
Gareth Southgate’s decision to exclude Grealish from England’s Euro 2024 squad was another bitter pill to swallow. Having been a key player during England’s Euro 2020 run, including a memorable cameo against Germany, being left out was a blow to his confidence.
In July 2024, Grealish opened up about the pain of watching the tournament from the sidelines. “It was the hardest moment for me as a footballer. I was absolutely heartbroken,” he admitted. “I feel like I offer something different to players in the England squad. But I have to use that as motivation.”
Life Off the Pitch
Away from the game, 2024 brought life-changing moments for Grealish. In September, he and long-time partner Sasha Attwood welcomed their daughter, Mila Rose. Becoming a father has undoubtedly reshaped his perspective, offering joy and purpose amidst professional challenges.
However, balancing the demands of elite football and fatherhood is no easy feat. Grealish’s reduced minutes post-September reflected the struggle to regain his rhythm in a team where opportunities are fleeting.
The Savinho Factor
Savinho’s arrival has intensified competition for City’s attacking positions. The Brazilian’s seamless adaptation to Guardiola’s system, coupled with his sharp delivery and relentless energy, has earned him the manager’s trust. Grealish, once untouchable on the left flank, now finds himself playing catch-up.
Despite these challenges, Grealish’s numbers aren’t significantly worse than his standout 2022-23 season. His passing accuracy, chances created, and cross success have all seen slight improvements. Yet, the intangibles—confidence, freedom, and joy—seem to be missing.
A Roadmap to Redemption
Grealish’s path back to prominence requires more than just numbers. As Guardiola emphasized, it’s about mentality and consistency. For Grealish, it may be time to rediscover the fearless, exuberant style of play that earned him his £100m price tag.
His determination is evident. Grueling pre-season training sessions and a string of starts early in the 2024-25 campaign showcased his hunger. But sustaining that form amidst personal and professional upheaval remains the ultimate test.
The Bigger Picture
Jack Grealish’s story is far from over. At 29, he still has time to re-establish himself as a vital cog in Guardiola’s machine and reclaim his spot in the England squad under Thomas Tuchel. With Guardiola’s backing and his undeniable talent, the stage is set for a comeback.
Football, after all, is a game of narratives. From Aston Villa’s prodigy to City’s Treble hero, Grealish has always thrived in the spotlight. Now, as he seeks to rise from adversity, the football world watches with bated breath.
Can he silence the doubters and script another chapter of brilliance? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain: the footballing world isn’t ready to give up on Jack Grealish just yet.