Man City tipped to axe Jack Grealish after ‘surprise’ development – Robinson
Paul Robinson expects Riyad Mahrez to replace Jack Grealish in the Man City starting XI against Bournemouth on Saturday.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-Spurs and England number one said Grealish, 26, is “struggling” and “did not improve” in his “surprise” start at the London Stadium.
Grealish has started both the FA Community Shield and Man City’s first league game of the season this month.
The attacking midfielder played from the left-hand flank against West Ham on Sunday as Pep Guadiola’s side began their title defence with a 2-0 win.
Erling Haaland and Phil Foden started alongside Grealish in the Man City attack.
The Cityzens welcome Bournemouth to the Etihad this Saturday.
When asked by Football Insider if Grealish has done enough to retain his place in the starting XI, Robinson said: “Grealish is struggling at the moment.
“He has not hit the heights that you would expect. It has been 12 months now.
“I did not see any improvement in his performance against West Ham. To be honest, I was surprised that he started at the weekend to be honest.
“I thoroughly expected Foden and Mahrez to start. I think they will be the two against Bournemouth.
“Grealish is not going to get an easy ride if he is not performing. He has a lot to live up to really.”
Grealish joined Man City from Aston Villa for £100million in the summer of 2021.
He has six goals and four assists in 41 appearances for the club to date.
In other news, John Stones faces extended spell out of Man City XI after what pundit has seen.