Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has expressed confidence in Jack Grealish’s ability to regain his form following his “struggles” this season.
Grealish, who was instrumental in City’s historic Treble triumph last season, including starts in both the FA Cup and Champions League finals, has found himself on the periphery during this term’s crucial stages.
Despite starting both legs of the Champions League quarter-final loss to Real Madrid, Grealish only played 10 minutes across City’s five games in May. He was an unused substitute in key Premier League matches against Tottenham and West Ham and remained on the bench throughout the FA Cup final loss to Manchester United.
Guardiola opted for Jeremy Doku off the bench in the 2-1 defeat, with the Belgian winger scoring City’s sole goal.
Although Grealish was included in Gareth Southgate’s initial 33-man squad, his spot for Euro 2024 is not guaranteed due to the wealth of attacking talent available to England.
Despite these challenges, Guardiola remains unconcerned about his £100m record signing’s future form.
But Guardiola doesn’t see any significant issues with his £100m record signing.
“He will be back,” said the City manager.
“He’s struggled this season and Jeremy has made an incredible step forward as everyone has seen in the last games. But Jack will be back at the level of last season, I’m pretty sure.”
Summer changes at City?
Guardiola has confirmed his commitment to the final year of his contract with City. However, he faces several issues to address this summer, even after his team made history by becoming the first in English football to win four consecutive league titles.
Kevin De Bruyne, now 32, has one year left on his contract but has struggled with form this season. In the match against United, he was substituted before the hour mark, highlighting his difficulties.
Midfielder Kalvin Phillips is expected to leave the club after an unsuccessful loan spell at West Ham.
Questions also surround first-choice goalkeeper Ederson, who has been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia, and his backup, Stefan Ortega, whose contract expires in 2025 and who was responsible for the opening goal against United.
City’s £53m signing from Wolves, Matheus Nunes, started only seven Premier League games, with just one appearance since February, and like Grealish, was benched during the season’s critical moments.
“I know some players have to take a decision on whether they stay with us and some players might come,” said Guardiola.
“My sporting director says everything is fine for next year but right now, I don’t know what might happen.”
There is likely to be one significant addition to the squad next season in the form of 20-year-old wide-man Savio.
The Brazilian has been outstanding in Girona’s amazing La Liga campaign, which has qualified them for the expanded Champions League.
He was already on loan from another City Football Group club, Troyes, and his switch to Manchester is expected to be confirmed in the next few weeks.