Manchester City manager Josep Guardiola says Jack Grealish must prove he deserves to regain his place in the team’s starting XI by showing the quality he showed when the club won the treble in 2023. He said it must be done.
The 29-year-old England international has appeared in 14 of City’s 20 Premier League games this season, but started just six.
Grealish played just six minutes in City’s 4-1 win over West Ham United at the Etihad on Sunday, replacing Erling Haaland in the 84th minute.
Brazilian Sabinho, signed for £30.8m from Girona last summer, started ahead of the former Aston Villa captain against the Hammers and provided the assist for Haaland’s double in the win.
Guardiola said he would work with Grealish to regain the form that made him a key player two seasons ago as City strengthened their Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League titles.
Asked if Sabinho could be a “role model” for him to regain his place, the City manager said: “Sabinho is better than Jack in terms of his condition and everything. That’s why we played Sabinho[against West Ham].” he said.
“Do I want a Treble-winning Jack? Yes, I want one, but I’m trying to be honest with myself about that.
“They have to fight. You can say it’s unfair. Yeah, that’s fine if you feel that way, but it’s like, ‘Okay, I’m going to fight Sabinho, I’m eligible to play.’ You have to prove yourself to that position, every day, every week, and every month. ”
