Footage has emerged revealing what was said during the heated exchange between Emiliano Martinez and Jack Grealish during Manchester City's 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa at the weekend. It was far from a warm welcome for England international Grealish on his return to the Midlands, where he first made a name for himself before his £100m switch to the Etihad.
The winger was heckled and teased by the Villa Park faithful throughout the match, prompting him to remind them of how many Premier League titles he has won since leaving the club. He was also seen in a tense confrontation with former teammate Martinez as they walked down the tunnel at half-time. The Argentine's words during the exchange have now been revealed, shedding light on what caused tempers to boil over.
Michael Owen named 3 best footballers he played with Related
Michael Owen Slams Aston Villa Fans For Jack Grealish Treatment After Man City Win
The former Ballon d'Or winner did not hold back in his scathing assessment of the Aston Villa fans in the wake of their 2-1 win over Man City.
Martinez's Confronting Words to Grealish During 2-1 Victory
The pair were separated by a member of staff
As can be seen in the footage above, the two players can be seen getting into a debate with one another as both teams make their way to their dressing rooms at the interval. In the video caught by a fan in the stands, Martínez can be heard saying to Grealish, "You think you're a big boy now?"
While the microphone does not pick up the Englishman's response, he can be seen talking back to Martínez in an assertive manner while a member of Manchester City staff ushers him away from the situation.
The incident and the defeat marked a new low for Grealish amid City's recent turmoil. The 29-year-old has now gone over a calendar year without finding the back of the net at club level, with his last strike coming in a 2-2 draw against Crystal Palace on December 16th 2023. The drought has spanned the course of 45 matches, although he has been on target for the Three Lions during that time.
EPL_Grealish vs Antony Stats Related
Jack Grealish vs Antony Stats Comparison Since Start of 2023/24
Both men completed big money moves but neither have covered themselves in glory
All statistics courtesy of Transfermarkt - accurate as of 24/12/2024