Pep Guardiola has warned Jack Grealish that he needs to change his lifestyle to adapt to Manchester City's hectic schedule following his £100m Aston Villa departure.
The England international was left out of City's starting line-up against Burnley in the Premier League last weekend and it was the first time since his arrival.
But then in the 5-1 Champions League win against Club Brugge, Grealish was restored in the XI.
Speaking before that game, Guardiola admitted that the winger is still adjusting to the new demands which have been placed upon him since his transfer.
During his time at Villa Park, he rarely played twice in a week, but that is the normal for the Etihad players.
“We spoke about that and how he has to live when he’s not here with resting, sleeping,” said Guardiola.
“What he’s done so far is excellent, he played every game apart from Burnley, and I’m pretty sure he’ll improve.
“For a manager, you have to see which is the best position, but he played really well. He’s focused on what he has to do; he’s strong, his weight perfect, his mentality in the right position, and, hopefully, we can help him.
“It’s the first time he’s played every three days for 11 months; it’s a good challenge for him.”
The 26-year-old has been struggling to show his best form so far, as he's got 2 goals and 2 assists in 10 appearances for his new club yet.
“The quality in the final third, he attracts many opponents, finds his mates, scores goals and win games in the final third, that’s the quality he has,” said Guardiola.
“We have players but wanted another as we have a lot of games; he’s the perfect age at 26.
“When you are on top of the competitions, for many years, the squad must be removed (renovated) a bit, otherwise it’s more difficult.
“Everyone has to feel the pressure, see what the team has done. All the big clubs add players and add quality, running, defensively, the quality that comes from themselves, this is what we want from Jack and all the players we sign.”
Source -
birminghammail
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