Man City make blockbuster signing as emotional Jack Grealish takes iconic shirt number after ‘dream come true’
Jack Grealish has completed his highly-anticipated transfer from Aston Villa to Manchester City, calling his new club “the best team in the country”.
Grealish has been the subject of intense transfer speculation in recent months and has now earned his big move. The attacking midfielder has been praised for his performances at Villa and has now finally taken the step up to European level. He has signed a six-year contract at the Etihad Stadium.
Previously having spent his entire club career at Aston Villa, apart from a loan spell away with Notts County in 2013-14, Grealish is now a member of the squad looking to retain their Premier League title.
City have not disclosed the cost of the transfer, but it is understood to be a British record £100m.
“I am incredibly happy to have joined Manchester City,” Grealish told the club’s website. “City are the best team in the country with a manager considered to be the best in the world – it’s a dream come true to be part of this club.
“Over the past 10 seasons, they have won major trophies consistently. Pep coming here has taken them to the next level and the football this team plays is the most exciting in Europe. To play for Pep and learn from him is going to be special and it’s something any top footballer would want.
“The facilities are amazing, and I honestly can’t wait to get started, meet everyone and get playing.”
HE’S HERE!
We are delighted to announce the signing of @JackGrealish on a six-year deal.
Welcome to City, Jack!
#ManCity | https://t.co/axa0klD5re pic.twitter.com/5Y3gMREmKL
— Manchester City (@ManCity) August 5, 2021
Grealish faced a tough decision over his future, having signed a huge contract with boyhood club Villa last summer.
The call from Pep Guardiola was too good to turn down, though. He will now hope to win some major honours while boosting his England chances.
He leaves Aston Villa having made 213 appearances for the club. In that time, he contributed 32 goals and 41 assists.
An exciting new challenge now awaits the 25-year-old, who has taken the number 10 shirt at City.
@AVFCOfficial pic.twitter.com/gA2SbUspbP
— Jack Grealish (@JackGrealish) August 5, 2021
Grealish hailed as perfect match for City
Director of Football Txiki Begiristain added: “We are absolutely delighted to be able to welcome Jack Grealish to Manchester City. He is an incredible talent.
“Jack’s development over the past few seasons both for club and country has been plain for everybody to see. His natural talent together with his commitment to improve as a player, has seen him become one of the most exciting attacking players in world football today.
“I am certain that the fans are going to love seeing him in our team. Pep loves the way he plays, and we all feel he is an ideal fit for Manchester City. Our style and his style are a perfect match. I’m excited to watch him over the coming years.”
READ MORE: De Bruyne role in sparking Man City pursuit of Villa ace Grealish revealed
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