Pep Guardiola blasts Jack Grealish for his poor form and admits he wishes he could repeat his highs from Man City’s Treble-winning season – with Savinho ‘in better shape’

Pep Guardiola has criticized Jack Grealish for his poor form this season, admitting he wishes the Manchester City winger was still playing like he did in the 2022-2023 Treble season.

The City boss picked Savinho ahead of Grealish in the summer for City’s 4-1 win over West Ham on Saturday, explaining that the Brazilian – who provided two assists – is in ‘better form’ than the Englishman.

“No matter how much Grealish looks at himself, he will see the competition,” Guardiola said. ‘He has to compete with himself. Savinho is in better shape and everything than Jack and that’s why I played Savinho.

‘I want the Jack who won the Treble. But that’s why I try to be honest with myself. What happened to Savinho’s delivery in the box? It is higher than the other wingers in that position.

‘And they have to fight. You can say, “Okay, it’s unfair.” If that’s what you think, then it’s okay. But you have to prove: ‘I’m going to fight with Savinho, to deserve to play in that position’. And every day, and every week and every month.’

Grealish, 29, has scored just three goals in the Premier League since the start of last season and registered two assists.

Guardiola wants Grealish to repeat his heroics from Manchester City’s Treble-winning season

Savinho was selected instead against West Ham and registered two assists in the 4-1 win

Guardiola added: ‘I know he can do it because I saw him. I have seen his level and I want that, every training and every match.

‘If not, Savinho… is there anyone (who thinks) Savinho doesn’t deserve to play now? I play him because he produces.’