Pep Guardiola provides initial injury assessment on Jack Grealish following Copenhagen withdrawal

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Published on 2024-02-14 07:15:00

Pep Guardiola has admitted that Jack Grealish appeared to have sustained a ‘muscular’ problem during Manchester City’s 1-3 UEFA Champions League win over Copenhagen. The England international was making his first start for Manchester City after an extended period away from Pep Guardiola’s starting line-ups, amid attempts to re-find his rhythm and standards in training sessions.

Grealish showcased a promising start to the match, drawing in his usual challenges from opponents and controlling possession for Manchester City perfectly in the way Guardiola would have intended tactically. However, his outing at Parken was cut short after just 21 minutes, with Jeremy Doku taking his place in the match after the injury blow.

Speaking to TNT Sports after the contest in Denmark, Pep Guardiola revealed his belief that Jack Grealish had sustained a ‘muscular’ injury in the first-half against Copenhagen following a string of ‘much better’ training sessions from the forward. Guardiola said, “Something muscular, I think so. It’s a little bit in the groin. I don’t know perfectly but it’s a pity because these type of games, we need this type of tempo, the control.”

City are expected to further test Jack Grealish’s injury upon their arrival back at the City Football Academy, however it remains unlikely that he will play any part in the weekend’s clash with Chelsea. However, the team is expected to welcome back Mateo Kovacic to their matchday set-up, with the Croatian expected to continue training later this week and make himself available following one-game ruled out with a knee injury.

Overall, after showcasing a promising start in the match against Copenhagen, Grealish’s injury is a setback for Manchester City, and it is uncertain when he will be able to return to the field. Guardiola emphasized the importance of having players like Grealish to maintain the tempo and control in games, and it is clear that his absence will be felt in the upcoming matches.

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