Matthew Wilkinson

Sun 12 January 2025 11:12, UK

Jack Grealish has sent a message to his Man City teammate James McAtee following their FA Cup victory against Salford City.

Pep Guardiola’s side progressed to the next round after an emphatic 8-0 win which saw Jeremy Doku score a brace, James McAtee scored a hat-trick as well as goals from Divin Mubama, Nico O’Reilly, and Grealish.

Grealish’s 49th-minute penalty ended a humilatingly barren run of form for him in front of goal, with this being the first time he found the back of the net in over a year for his club.

2024 was a year to forget for the England international in terms of his attacking output, but he has kickstarted the year in form against Salford.

After the game he sent a message to City fans about the performance, and a personal one to McAtee after his individual efforts.

He said, “Well done boys, through to the next round & congrats brother on the hat trick @jamesmccatee_.”

Man City must play James McAtee moving forward

McAtee’s performance earned him high praise from fans after the game, but it will add pressure onto City as they attempt to keep hold of the 22-year-old.

Football Insider revealed in December that McAtee could push to leave the club due to his lack of playing time under Guardiola, having only featured 11 times in this campaign.

Football Insider reported that Crystal Palace are interested in signing the City youngster as they have had scouts monitoring his progress.

City fans were also impressed by Grealish’s individual performance, especially after he found the back of the net once again.

Supporters have urged Guardiola to keep the England international in midfield moving forward.

In other news, Kyle Walker branded a ‘disgrace’ after confirmed Man City news – fans fume.

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