Jack Grealish appeared to be on the verge of rediscovering his top form in a Manchester City shirt, starting six games across all competitions this season and showing flashes of the skill and creativity that made him one of the Premier League’s most exciting players. However, just as he seemed to be finding his rhythm, the 29-year-old was sidelined due to injury ahead of Manchester City’s recent 1-0 victory over Southampton.
With several key players also dealing with fitness issues, City’s squad depth is currently stretched thin. Jeremy Doku, another impactful forward, has also been ruled out, joining Grealish and other notable absences, including Kevin De Bruyne, whose recovery from a complex injury is progressing slower than anticipated, as well as Kyle Walker, Rodri, and young talent Oscar Bobb. Manager Pep Guardiola is therefore left managing a squad missing several crucial contributors, making the return of Grealish and others all the more essential.
Grealish’s experience and talent have often proven invaluable for City, especially in high-stakes matches. As a creative and technically gifted player, he offers unique qualities that help City break down stubborn defenses. Grealish, who joined City from Aston Villa in 2021 for a record-breaking transfer fee, has won multiple trophies at the club, including the Premier League title. Despite a challenging first season, Grealish was instrumental in City’s treble-winning 2022-23 campaign, where he started in several critical matches and demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure. This season, his absence due to injury will leave a gap that Guardiola will struggle to fill with equal expertise.
Ahead of City’s upcoming Carabao Cup clash against Tottenham Hotspur, Guardiola confirmed that Grealish would not be available. When asked about the likelihood of his recovery before the November international break, Guardiola replied, “I don’t think so,” via HaytersTV, indicating that City fans may have to wait until after the break to see Grealish back on the pitch. The setback marks the second injury for Grealish this season; he was also unavailable for City’s 2-0 win over Chelsea due to an issue earlier in the campaign.
Reflecting on last season, Grealish had expressed frustration, labeling the campaign a “write-off” due to both on-field and off-field challenges. He admitted to struggling with his performance, as injuries and a burglary at his home impacted him mentally and physically. Grealish made only 10 Premier League starts in 2022-23, a season he personally regarded as subpar despite City’s historic success. His honest assessment after City’s 3-1 victory over West Ham United, which clinched the Premier League title, was a reminder of his high standards and desire to be at his best for his club.
Given his ambitions for this season, Grealish worked diligently in the off-season to improve his fitness, with former Aston Villa teammate Gabby Agbonlahor highlighting Grealish’s dedication. According to Agbonlahor, Grealish worked rigorously with fitness coaches and personal trainers throughout the summer, hoping to rediscover his prime form. This effort seemed to be paying off in his early-season performances, but his recent injury has now forced him to the sidelines once more, placing his efforts on pause.
With the international break approaching, the timing of Grealish’s absence is particularly challenging for City, as he is set to miss several crucial games. Grealish will be sidelined for City’s UEFA Champions League clash against Feyenoord, as well as additional Premier League fixtures, including a highly anticipated showdown against Liverpool at Anfield shortly after the break. Whether he will be match-fit for this high-stakes encounter remains uncertain, but if cleared, he would offer a significant boost to a City squad that is already battling through injuries to its core players.
City fans will likely feel Grealish’s absence keenly, as his flair, dribbling ability, and eye for goal add a layer of creativity that few players can replicate. His vision and passing in tight spaces are assets that help City control games, especially against well-organized defensive setups. With other important fixtures looming, Guardiola will need to rely on players like Phil Foden, Bernardo Silva, and Julian Alvarez to shoulder more attacking responsibility in Grealish’s absence. Additionally, the absence of De Bruyne, City’s creative talisman, amplifies the need for alternative options in midfield and forward areas to step up.
While Grealish is certainly disappointed by the timing and length of his injury spell, he remains determined to return stronger. His dedication to physical fitness and his proven ability to perform in crucial moments suggest that he could make a significant impact in the latter part of the season. With Manchester City aiming to defend their league title and make strides in Europe, a fully fit and focused Grealish will be essential in their quest for silverware.
In the meantime, City fans and Guardiola will be watching his progress closely, hoping for a swift recovery. As Grealish’s absence continues, City must navigate their schedule without one of their most influential playmakers, but his anticipated return after the international break could be just the reinforcement they need to tackle the demanding winter period ahead.