Grealish finally proves his £100m worth with Trent destruction

Suraj Radia

• 1 Apr 2023 16:12 BST
• 2 min read

Jack Grealish has endured a difficult time since becoming the most expensive English player of all time but the Manchester City star is finally showcasing his worth after inspiring his side to an impressive win over Liverpool.

Grealish scored one and set up another in City’s 4-1 win over Jurgen Klopp’s side to mark a dramatic turnaround in form since the World Cup with eight assists and three goals.

The 27-year-old made easy work of England teammate Trent Alexander-Arnold, exposing the Liverpool right-back’s defensive frailties to keep City’s title hopes alive.

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Grealish had struggled since his record £100 million move from Aston Villa in 2021 but he has provided more goal contributions in the past three months than his entire City career previously.

With Pep Guardiola’s side desperately trying to close the gap on leaders Arsenal at the top of the table and missing Erling Haaland through injury, Grealish’s put in arguably his best performance in a City shirt against Liverpool.

His timely return to form, however, further compounded the misery on Alexander-Arnold and Liverpool, with the Reds seven points off the top four and in danger of missing out on Europe altogether.

Grealish showing his best at the expense of Trent

Grealish’s strike was the first time he had scored at home for City since 2021 and his first goal contribution at the Etihad this season, prompting some fans to describe him as the most improved player of the Premier League campaign so far.

His reversal in fortunes is in direct contrast to Alexander-Arnold, who has suffered an alarming decline since being touted as one of the best right-backs in the world in recent seasons.

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Alexander-Arnold was out of position for a number of City’s attacks, often fouling and failing to engage in the wide areas, allowing Grealish space to thrive in both halves of the pitch.

Grealish has scored against Arsenal, Manchester United and Liverpool this season, highlighting his ability to produce in big moments despite some frustrating displays, while his work rate and defensive contribution has made him integral to Guardiola even without the goals.

City have kept the faith in their record signing, knowing that players often take some time to adapt to Guardiola’s demands, with Grealish often featuring in a different role to what made him successful at Villa.

The England star is finally showing his best form, albeit at the expense of Alexander-Arnold, who may now be looking to draw inspiration from Grealish in blocking out the criticism and working hard to produce a similar comeback story and save his faltering career.