Jack Grealish Talks Motivation And Comeback After Euro 2024 Exclusion

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Jack Grealish described his exclusion from England's Euro 2024 squad as the hardest challenge he has faced in his career. Despite being a regular since 2021, Gareth Southgate left him out. Grealish, who transferred to City from Aston Villa for £100 million after aiding England to the Euro 2020 final, had an inconsistent season with Pep Guardiola's team in 2023-24.

Grealish managed three goals and three assists in 36 appearances across all competitions for City last season. However, injuries and a dip in form often relegated him to a substitute role. Missing out on Euro 2024 has now given the 28-year-old extra drive to regain his top form.

"I'll be honest; it was probably, football-wise, the most difficult thing I've ever had to deal with in my career," Grealish admitted before City's pre-season match against Barcelona. "I was absolutely heartbroken and then obviously when you're on your holidays, wherever I was, every time you turn on the phone or turn on the TV or whatever, you just see it. So it was hard not to see it."

Looking ahead, Grealish aims to use this setback as motivation for the upcoming season. He plans to adopt the same mindset he had two years ago when he felt he didn't perform well in his first season at City but came back stronger in his second season.

Grealish believes that Pep Guardiola is the perfect mentor for him during this challenging period. "Yes, I always speak to him. I won't go into too much detail about what we speak about because that's between me and him," Grealish said. "He's been so good for me in the three years I've been here - there's not too many people better to take advice from. Pep is a master in this game."

For Grealish, this pre-season is an opportunity to get fit and gain confidence. "This is my chance to get my fitness, to have a two-week head start and try to be as fit as possible," he stated. "And I'm playing with confidence. I feel like that's what I need and fingers crossed I can do that."

Despite the disappointment of missing out on Euro 2024, Grealish remains focused on improving his performance for Manchester City. He hopes that by working hard during pre-season and taking advice from Guardiola, he can return to his best form.

The playmaker's determination is evident as he looks forward to proving himself once again on the pitch. With Guardiola's guidance and his own resolve, Grealish aims to make a significant impact in the upcoming season.

Grealish's journey continues as he strives to overcome setbacks and achieve success both personally and professionally with Manchester City.