‘Selection’ was the term used by Pep Guardiola to describe his decision to exclude Jack Grealish from the Fulham encounter. Grealish was not included in the matchday squad at Fulham, as Claudio Echeverri, an inexperienced player, was selected in his place.
Guardiola’s decision to substitute Echeverri for Grealish in the FA Cup final at Wembley as City pursued the game raised concerns. The most high-profile absence from the group at Craven Cottage for the final game of the season before the Club World Cup next month was City’s £100m signing.
Grealish’s injury was not reported on the club website, as it was for John Stones. Guardiola informed broadcasters prior to the match that he had selected other players.
Grealish has only appeared in one of the last 21 league games, but this marks the first occasion this season that he has been excluded from the City squad entirely, despite his availability. It will only serve to raise additional enquiries regarding his future in anticipation of the club’s intention to reconstitute the squad this summer.
Guardiola has been unequivocal in recent weeks regarding his disappointment with the exclusion of players from his squad. In recent weeks, a number of players, including Rico Lewis, one of Guardiola’s most frequently utilised players, and summer signing Savinho, have been released.
“I informed the club that I do not desire a larger squad.” I do not wish to leave five or six participants in the freezer. I am opposed to that. On Tuesday, he declared, “I will resign.” “I will remain if they reduce the size of the squad.” It is impossible for my soul to provide my players in the tribune with an inability to perform.
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