Jack Grealish, a key player for Manchester City, is moving past his recent exclusion from the England squad as the new Premier League season approaches.
Grealish was notably left out of Gareth Southgate’s final 23-man roster for Euro 2024 after a season with City that did not meet expectations. Instead, Southgate opted for the in-form Anthony Gordon and Cole Palmer over Grealish. Although this decision was likely disappointing for him, it has given him the chance to focus on his preparations for the upcoming season with Manchester City.
Despite the official pre-season training not yet commencing, videos circulating on social media show the 28-year-old actively training on his own.
According to a report by The Mirror, Grealish has informed Manchester City that he plans to return to training several days before the date scheduled by manager Pep Guardiola. This proactive approach highlights his determination to regain top form and contribute significantly to his team’s success.
Last season, Grealish’s opportunities were hindered by a series of injuries, leading Guardiola to frequently favor Belgian winger Jeremy Doku on the left wing.
The upcoming pre-season tour for City, set to begin next month, presents an excellent chance for Grealish to showcase his abilities and secure his place in the starting lineup. City’s first competitive match of the season will be in the Community Shield against their rivals, Manchester United, providing an early test for Grealish and his teammates.
Grealish’s dedication to extra training sessions indicates that he is not dwelling on Southgate’s decision to exclude him from the national team.
Instead, he is channeling his energy into preparing for the season ahead with City. It would not be surprising if Grealish eventually finds his way back into the international squad, but for now, his primary focus is on performing well for his club.
The England national team, known as the Three Lions, has had a rocky start to Euro 2024. They managed a tense victory against Serbia, followed by a 1-1 draw with Denmark. Many fans believe that Grealish’s inclusion could have alleviated some of the team’s current struggles, arguing that his creativity and skill could provide a much-needed boost.
Despite the recent setbacks, Grealish remains Manchester City’s record signing, having been acquired for £100 million in 2021.
His significant transfer fee underscores the high expectations placed upon him, and he is poised to play a crucial role in City’s future successes. His commitment to early training and determination to improve are positive signs for both his club and potentially the national team in the future.
Grealish’s absence from the England squad has sparked discussions among fans and analysts alike. Many feel that his exclusion was a mistake, especially given his ability to change the dynamics of a game with his flair and vision.
However, this period of focusing solely on his club responsibilities might prove beneficial for Grealish, allowing him to refine his form and fitness without the added pressure of international duties.
As Manchester City embarks on their pre-season tour, all eyes will be on Grealish to see how he performs. His determination to impress Guardiola and reclaim a starting spot will be critical as the team prepares for a challenging season ahead.
While his omission from the Euro 2024 squad is a setback, it also provides an opportunity for Grealish to concentrate on what he can control: his performance on the pitch for Manchester City.
