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4. Jack Grealish
Aston Villa captain Jack Grealish has taken the Premier League by storm this season, scoring 7 goals and providing 5 assists in 22 appearances. This is the 24-year-old’s second spell in the English top-flight, having featured previously in two league seasons as a teenager for the Villains.
Dean Smith’s side are in the middle of a relegation battle, currently sitting only 2 points above the drop zone at 16th place. Aston Villa got promoted last season after what was an excellent season in the Championship, with Grealish playing a pivotal role. He has continued his outstanding form this term and could be on course to fight for the prestigious PFA Young Player of the Year award come May.
If Aston Villa are to stay up this season, it will largely come down to the playmaker’s heroics. Grealish has sparked many debates of whether he is capable enough of making Gareth Southgate’s England squad for the Euro championships in the summer. And given his delicate dribbling, vision and knack for goals, he is an ideal attacking midfielder who, at the moment, could walk into any Premier League side.
Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola is one of the many admirers of the Villa captain, as the Spaniard lauded his performances this season, which sparked a transfer rumour linking him with a move to the Etihad.
“He’s incredible. A top player. I’m happy he stayed in the Championship to defend his club when he could have gone. He’s a talented player who always creates something. [Grealish] is an exceptional player but too expensive for Manchester [City],” Guardiola said.
Grealish would not only naturally slot in City’s midfield given his passing range and control over the ball but will also increase the club’s quota of English players. If his price is right, City could make a swoop for him in the summer as a like-for-like replacement for David Silva.
