Guardiola Expresses Concerns Over Grealish’s Fitness Following England Call-Up

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has asserted that Jack Grealish is not in suitable condition to participate in Saturday’s match against Brighton, notwithstanding the winger’s inclusion in the England squad. On Thursday, Grealish, who has been absent from City’s lineup since October 20, was named in Lee Carsley’s 26-player roster for England’s forthcoming Nations League fixtures against Greece and the Republic of Ireland. Following the announcement, Carsley stated that he “expected Grealish to be fit” and that the player would undergo evaluation upon joining the national team. During a news conference on Friday, Guardiola remarked: “It is [Carsley’s] decision. In 17 days he didn’t train once. [Friday] is the first training and he trained for 20 minutes. This is the reality.” He further elaborated: “He was in the gym for a few minutes, yes, the last two days. It’s a question for the manager from [England] – I’m not involved. All I’d say is the day after Wolves, he was injured, 17 days out and [Friday] was the first training with the team.” Last month, City captain Kyle Walker sustained an injury while on England duty. Subsequently, Guardiola expressed that he had never experienced such anger as when John Stones was injured during an England friendly at a critical juncture of the previous season. “They can select who they want,” Guardiola further stated on Friday. “Jack trained today and believes he can help us. I’m not the guy to say you cannot go. But for my team [on Saturday] he’s not fit. He cannot play.” He concluded by saying: “The people from England believe he can help. So go.”