Manchester City's Jack Grealish could miss the second leg of the Champions League play-off against Real Madrid after a freak injury in the first leg. Premier League legend Alan Shearer suspects that a lengthy VAR delay may have contributed to the forward's injury. Despite an early lead, City ended up losing the game 3-2. News Manchester City's Jack Grealish may miss second leg against Real Madrid due to injury after lengthy VAR delay disrupts game's rhythm and may have impacted player's fitness. Grealish, who had a crucial role in City's first goal, was forced off the field in the 30th minute due to a groin issue. Despite boss Pep Guardiola's praise for Grealish's fighting spirit, he has not been a regular starter this season due to impressive performances from other wingers. In the end, City lost the game 3-2 with the second leg scheduled for February 20.
Manchester City's Jack Grealish Injury Casts Doubt Over Champions League Prospects
Background
Manchester City faced Real Madrid in the first leg of the Champions League semi-finals on Tuesday, April 26, 2023. The English giants took an early lead through Kevin De Bruyne, but Real Madrid fought back to secure a 3-2 victory at the Etihad Stadium.
Injury Concern for Jack Grealish
A major concern for Manchester City emerged during the first half of the match. Forward Jack Grealish was forced off the field in the 30th minute after suffering a groin injury. The injury occurred following a lengthy VAR delay while a potential penalty for Manchester City was being reviewed.
Former Premier League legend Alan Shearer suggested that the VAR delay may have disrupted the game's rhythm and impacted Grealish's fitness. City manager Pep Guardiola praised Grealish's fighting spirit but acknowledged that he has not been a regular starter due to strong performances from other wingers.
Implications for Manchester City
Grealish's injury is a significant blow to Manchester City's hopes of reaching the Champions League final. The England international has been a key player for City in both the Premier League and Champions League campaigns this season.
His absence could force Guardiola to change his team selection for the second leg, which will be played at the Santiago Bernabeu on May 4. City will need to secure a victory in Madrid to progress to the final.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
1. What is the extent of Jack Grealish's injury?
The exact extent of Grealish's injury is not yet known. However, it is believed to be a groin problem, and there are concerns that he could miss the second leg of the Champions League semi-final.
2. How has Grealish performed for Manchester City this season?
Grealish has been a key player for City this season, scoring 13 goals and providing 12 assists in all competitions. He has started 35 games across all competitions and has often been praised for his creativity and work rate.
3. What are Manchester City's chances of reaching the Champions League final without Grealish?
Manchester City still have a strong squad, and they are capable of winning the Champions League even without Grealish. However, his absence will be a significant blow, and it will be interesting to see how Guardiola adjusts his team selection for the second leg.
4. Who is likely to replace Grealish in the Manchester City team?
Bernardo Silva, Riyad Mahrez, and Phil Foden are the most likely candidates to replace Grealish in the Manchester City team. All three players have experience playing on the wing, and they have all been in good form this season.
5. What is the significance of the Champions League for Manchester City?
Winning the Champions League would be a major achievement for Manchester City. It is the only major trophy that they have not yet won, and it would be a significant milestone in the club's history.
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