After not competing for the duel with Everton on “Boxing day” due to physical unpreparedness, Jack Grealish watched the match with Leicester from the bench, while he only played the last seven minutes in the victory over West Ham. On the other hand, his absence was best used by 20-year-old Savinho, who was among the best individuals in the three mentioned meetings, and with a total goal and three assists cemented his place on the left wing, at least as far as the next period is concerned.
Even Guardiola does not hide it, who after the clash with West Ham, sent a clear and direct message to the star for whom the Citizens once paid almost 120 million euros to Aston Villa.
– He has to fight with himself. Savinho is in better shape and that’s why he plays ahead of Grealish – the Catalan strategist began and continued:
– I want Jack who won the Treble. He has to fight for his position. Every day, every week, every month. I do not doubt the qualities of Grealish or any other player. Otherwise, they wouldn’t be here.
The 29-year-old Englishman has been under a magnifying glass since his arrival in Manchester because of his performances and, of course, the astronomical figure for which he was brought. Two seasons ago, as Guardiola himself said, he was an important cog in the team that conquered Europe, but since then his gradual decline began, primarily at the individual level.
Grealish’s bad form came to light more than anyone with the Citizens’ black series, and the unconvincing performances of late were the last straw for Guardiola, in whom Grealish obviously lost credit and trust, partly due to the pressure of the competition, in terms of young Savinho, who arrived in England for “only” 25 million euros, almost a hundred less than his colleague.
– Is there anyone in this room who doesn’t think Savinho should play now? No. He deserves it. That’s why he plays, because he creates opportunities – Guardiola concluded, reports Sportske Novosti.
(Vijesti.ba)
