Jack Grealish has been labeled a "huge success" at Manchester City by club legend Richard Dunne, despite the England international going more than a year without scoring in the Premier League.
Grealish, who became the most expensive player in British football history when he joined City from Aston Villa for £100 million in 2021, has faced scrutiny over his performances and goal-scoring record at the Etihad Stadium. However, Dunne believes the 29-year-old winger's contribution to City's success, including three Premier League titles and being part of the historic Treble-winning side in 2022-23, justifies his hefty price tag.
"The price tag is what it is, that's the business of Premier League football at the moment," said Dunne, speaking in association with William Hill. "If you look at any player that is involved in a Treble-winning team, they have justified their reasons for being there. Jack was a huge part of that Treble-winning side, so I don't think anyone can doubt that he has been a success at Man City. He has been a huge success."
Critics have pointed to Grealish's apparent change in playing style under Pep Guardiola, with observations that he seems less willing to carry the ball as he did during his time at Villa. His productivity has also decreased since moving from the West Midlands to the North West of England.
The statistics reflect these concerns, with Grealish scoring just 16 goals in 151 appearances for City. His last Premier League goal came over 14 months ago on December 16, 2023. In recent times, he has made as many headlines for his off-field activities as for his performances on the pitch.
Despite these issues, Dunne remains supportive of the player: "He has probably not had the goals and assists that everyone wants to look at and see, but his performances and what he's brought to the club and the team have been exceptional. If he was to leave in the summer, I don't think people would say it has been a failed move. He's had a really successful time and hopefully it will continue for more years, rather than thinking that's the end this summer."
Grealish is under contract at City until the summer of 2027, but his future at the club remains uncertain. With increased competition for places following recent transfer activity at the Etihad, speculation about a possible departure in the upcoming transfer window has begun to circulate.
