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The Cityzens' quest for a fifth Premier League title in a row might be off to a rocky start without the key forward
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has revealed that star forward Jack Grealish is a significant injury doubt for their upcoming Premier League season opener against Chelsea.
Grealish's injury concerns
The 28-year-old reportedly picked up a knock in training before Manchester City's victory on penalties in the Community Shield against Manchester United, forcing Guardiola to leave him out of the squad as a precaution.
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Speaking about Grealish’s injury, Guardiola said. "I don’t think it’s a big issue, but we didn’t want to take a risk [against Manchester United].”
The Manchester City manager, however, remains hopeful that Grealish will be fit for the match against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, but there is a possibility that he may not be ready in time.
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When asked about a possible return date for Grealish, Guardiola said, “Maybe against Chelsea he will be ready, or I’m pretty sure against Ipswich Town."
Manchester City's options to replace Grealish
With Grealish potentially unavailable, Guardiola will need to explore alternative options for the left-wing position.
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New signing Savinho and last season’s big transfer, Jeremy Doku, are expected to compete for the role in Grealish’s absence.
Savinho made an impressive debut off the bench in the Community Shield win over Manchester United and could be ahead of the Belgian in the pecking order.
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City will be keen to start their title defence strongly, but might have to do so in the absence of Grealish, who has been a key figure for Guardiola's side and their recent success.
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