Jack Grealish has inadvertently highlighted why Said Benrahma might struggle at times with a frank admission about his debut campaign with Manchester City.
The 26-year-old joined Man City from Aston Villa last summer for a club record £100 million fee (Sky Sports).
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Grealish hasn’t quite hit the heights that were expected of him at The Etihad though.
The ex-Villa man bagged six goals and four assists in 39 appearances for Manchester City this season (Transfermarkt), and he will be hoping for a much better return next term.
Grealish has been under a lot of pressure to perform for the Premier League champions and he has clearly lacked confidence at times.
His situation at The Etihad is very similar to that of West Ham ace Said Benrahma at the London Stadium. The 26-year-old Algerian has looked completely lost at times over the past 18 months. And we think there is a very simple reason as to why…
Jack Grealish admission shines light on Benrahma issue
The Manchester City star was speaking to reporters after his club won the Premier League title yesterday and admitted that fear of losing possession of the football prevented him from truly expressing himself this season:
We believe that that is exactly what has happened with Said Benrahma.
David Moyes has handled the Algerian poorly in my opinion over the past 18 months. It is clear to see that Moyes doesn’t fancy the former Brentford man. He is always the first one to get hooked by the Scot.
Moyes has consistently taken the hardline approach when speaking about Benrahma during his post-match press conferences.
The West Ham boss has continually questioned Benrahma’s decision making and ball retention throughout the season (Football.London).
As a result, the Algerian has looked petrified to try the things he is on the pitch to do, i.e, beat opposing defenders and drive towards goal.
Jack Grealish making the admission about his struggles yesterday was evidence that attacking players can find it hard when they are fearful of losing the ball. They’ve got to be able to play with more freedom if they are to succeed.
And hopefully Benrahma is given the chance to express himself properly next season.
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