Despite being signed as one of the Premier League’s best players, Jack Grealish has largely underwhelmed since his move to Manchester City in 2021.
Several theories have been used to justify the decline of a player who seemed destined to become a superstar during his time at Aston Villa.
Frank Leboeuf claimed Guardiola “ruined” Grealish as the Frenchman believes that the Manchester City boss was responsible for him no longer taking as many risks as he did in a Villa shirt.
However, Graeme Souness claimed Grealish “flatters to deceive” as a player.
Rayan Ait-Nouri could spark Jack Grealish revival at Man City
This summer, Grealish could stay at Manchester City after initially being set to leave after having a warm conversation with Pep Guardiola at Oasis’ recent concert.
Perhaps one reason why the Englishman should fancy staying at City is due to the arrival of Rayan Ait-Nouri, a traditional left-back who could finally free him from the task of hugging the touchline.
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At Aston Villa, a huge reason behind why Jack Grealish succeeded is due to being handed a de-facto free role, especially across central areas of the pitch — helped by Matt Targett holding the width down the left flank.
Jack Grealish warms up during Manchester City v AFC Bournemouth.
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images
Ait-Nouri could bring a similar dynamic to Targett by not just sticking to his position out wide but by making life easier for Grealish by making overlapping runs and combining with him in tight areas — which would mean he no longer would have the pressure of having to take on his right-back.
Ultimately, Grealish, who famously cost £100 million is not a natural left-winger and is instead more akin to an attacking midfielder and in the Algerian, he could be paired with a left-back who could turn the former into a far more unpredictable and threatening wide player.
Jeremy Doku admitted he enjoys playing alongside Ait-Nouri, who also allowed him to play in more central role while having the license to veer out to wide areas against Juventus at the FIFA Club World Cup as the pair wreaked havoc.
Rayan Ait-Nouri looking on during Manchester City's match against Juventus
Photo by Richard Sellers/Allstar/Getty Images
Considering Grealish admitted he loves Manchester City recently, he perhaps should give himself another shot at redeeming himself in a potentially different role by playing alongside £34 million man Ait-Nouri.
How Man City could line up with Jack Grealish next season
If a team features both Grealish and Ait-Nouri, Pep Guardiola will have to determine whether to play the former as a number 10 or out wide.
However, there is more than enough evidence to suggest the answer is on the left-wing.
A front four could feature Erling Haaland up front with Rayan Cherki playing in behind him alongside Grealish and Phil Foden on the flanks.
The midfield pairing could be comprised of Rodri and Tijjani Reijnders, who could anchor a back four including Matheus Nunes, Ruben Dias, Josko Gvardiol and Ait-Nouri, with Ederson starting in goal.