After Pep Guardiola’s press conference yesterday before City take on Crystal Palace today a question remained. Could Jack Grealish play as a number 10 for the European champions? The England international does appear to have the skillset to make a shift into a central position but will it happen anytime soon?
Speaking in his pre-game press conference Guardiola spoke of Grealish’s versatility. He told the media: “Jack can understand immediately. He can play in different positions, in the middle. He’s a typical number 10. At Villa he played as a winger, at the beginning when he arrived he played false nine.”
The skillset that Jack Grealish has would appear to be suited to playing as a number 10. His ability to dribble, pick a pass and his tactical awareness would lend itself to the role. With his ability to draw fouls and maintain possession, it would be another asset for the European champions. While Grealish performs well out in the left wing, there are times he drifts centrally and creates more for his team.
His ability to play the final ball was on show last weekend against Luton Town. He played a sublime ball in the first half for Julian Alvarez but the Argentinean striker put his effort wide of the post. It was a snippet of what could lie ahead if Grealish does move into a midfield position.
The winger also has the defensive capabilities to perform in midfield. His ability to track back is a key piece of his game. It was a vital part of last season’s treble success as Grealish made the left wing spot his last season.
With Jeremy Doku arriving this season and putting in some dazzling displays a potential move of Grealish into the number 10 role may cater for both to start for Pep Guardiola.