Pep Guardiola warns Jack Grealish to fight for his future at Man City and compete with three teammates for his spot in the squad.

Pep Guardiola has urged Jack Grealish to step up and fight for his future at Manchester City.

Grealish impressed his manager in City’s 2-1 FA Cup comeback win against Leyton Orient on Saturday, providing the assist for Kevin De Bruyne’s winner. It was his first start since scoring in the previous round against Salford, but Guardiola remains demanding as he looks to revive City’s season ahead of their Champions League clash with Real Madrid on Tuesday.

“I want much more,” Guardiola said, challenging Grealish to compete with Savinho, Jeremy Doku, and Phil Foden for a place in the team. “This is the level I expect from Jack, but it hasn’t always been like that.”

Guardiola emphasized the need for competition, stating that squads evolve each season and that no contract guarantees a player’s place. “New signings arrive, and players must understand that. It’s competition—on the pitch and in the dressing room—that makes them better,” he said.

The City boss noted signs of fight from Grealish against Orient, appreciating his determination to silence the crowd and prove himself. Guardiola praised his street football instincts in contrast to the more tactical, academy-trained players of today.

“He’s a fighter,” Guardiola added. “I saw that spark—‘I want to rebel, I want to prove the manager wrong.’ I love that. In the end, it’s about performance—assists, goals, making an impact.”

While Grealish has contributed a goal and three assists in the FA Cup against lower-league sides, Guardiola expects more from a £100 million player. However, he remains optimistic: “The season is still open. I’m happy with what

he showed.”