"I feel sorry for him out there." - Pundit slams Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola for not using 'generational talent' effectively

Former Aston Villa goalkeeper Shay Given has hit out at Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola for how he has used Jack Grealish since his arrival at the club. The England international has struggled to make an impact at the Etihad, often existing on the fringes of Guardiola's plans at the club.

Literally and figuratively, Grealish plays on the fringes for Manchester City as he is often utilized in a wide position, preventing him from affecting the game centrally. The 29-year-old has contributed just one assist in nine league appearances for the side amid their struggle for form this term.

A former teammate of Grealish's turned pundit, Given voiced out his displeasure at how his 'generational talent' ex-teammate is wasting away in Guardiola's system. Speaking with the BBC's Football Daily, the former goalkeeper opined that the midfielder has been used out of position. He said:

"I know I’m slightly biased because I played with Jack at Aston Villa, so I know Jack’s won all these trophies and Champions League and Premier Leagues and stuff, but I think he’s playing out of position. He has done so since the day he joined Man City. I think he’s a waste on the left wing, I think he’s like a mannequin at times and I feel sorry for him out there.

"I think he’s a generational talent going to waste at Man City. That sounds a bit harsh perhaps on Pep but I think he’s such a talented player playing out of position."

Jack Grealish has struggled to make an impact since leaving Aston Villa for Manchester City in a £100 million move in 2021. The England international has provided two assists in 13 appearances for the Cityzens across all competitions this season.

Grealish has played 138 games for Guardiola's side since his switch three years ago and has 14 goals and 20 assists to his name. He has lifted every available major trophy bar the Carabao Cup in his time at the Etihad Stadium.

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Manchester City ready offer for Rodri replacement - Reports

Manchester City are reportedly preparing to make a move for a new defensive midfielder in the January transfer window after their struggles this season. The Cityzens are fifth in the Premier League, 11 points behind leaders Liverpool, after losing four successive games.

MilanLive.it (via FourFourTwo) reports that Guardiola's side are prepared to make a move to sign Italy international Samuele Ricci from Torino in the January transfer window. The 23-year-old is expected to cost around €35 million, a fee the Citizens will be likely to pay.

Manchester City lost Ballon d'Or winner Rodri to an ACL injury in September before losing Mateo Kovacic in midfield last month to another injury. Guardiola will hope his team can remain in contention for the league until he is able to strengthen his squad in January.