The Player Thierry Henry Blamed for Manchester City's Crisis.

Football legends often provide the most candid insights, and this weekend was no exception when French icon Thierry Henry, speaking from the comfort of his home, voiced his frustration after watching the intense Manchester Derby. The match left Henry lamenting the notable change in Jack Grealish’s playing style compared to the electrifying performances he delivered at Aston Villa.

Since Grealish’s move from Villa to Manchester City in 2021 for a massive £100 million, the winger has enjoyed significant team success, winning three Premier League titles, the Champions League, and the FA Cup. However, his personal tally of goals has been underwhelming, with only three goals scored for City since the start of last season, his most recent goal coming a year ago, hindered by injuries along the way.

A Shift in Grealish’s Playing Style Under Pep

At Aston Villa, Grealish was a joy to watch, playing in a free role that allowed him to frequently captivate fans with his runs down the left wing, cutting inside with ease, and displaying leadership as the club’s talisman. His move to Manchester City, however, has seen him adopt a more structured role in Guardiola’s star-studded lineup, sacrificing some of the spontaneity that made him stand out.

During the derby, with City leading 1-0 against Manchester United, Grealish came on as a substitute late in the game. In a key moment, he received the ball on the left wing but chose not to take on his defender, instead opting for a safe backward pass. This cautious decision came back to haunt City as United scored twice in the final minutes to win the match.

Henry’s Frustration with Grealish’s Cautious Decision-Making

After the match, Henry did not hold back in expressing his disbelief at Grealish’s decision-making during the post-match analysis on Sky Sports. "I was at home screaming because that’s not the Jack Grealish I saw at Villa or the Grealish I saw arrive at Man City," he said. "When the ball comes to you in those moments, and I see Bruno Fernandes closing in, with Gundogan making a run, you have to take that moment. The ball’s at your feet, face your man!"

Henry continued, stressing the importance of players trusting their instincts, especially in critical moments: "At that moment, you decide how to play. It’s not about your coach’s instructions. You have to feel the game in real time. It’s frustrating to watch players retreat and invite pressure when they’re in a one-on-one situation. Why not take the opportunity?"

As fans reflect on Grealish’s current form and decision-making on the pitch, the question remains: Will returning to his roots at Aston Villa reignite the spark we once saw in him?

• Thierry Henry criticized Jack Grealish’s cautious decision-making in the Manchester Derby.
• Grealish has won multiple titles with Manchester City, but his goal tally has been low.
• Henry believes Grealish has lost some of the spontaneity he had at Aston Villa.
• Fans wonder if a return to his previous playing style could bring back his best form.