When the Manchester City starting lineup was announced before their 4-1 win over Aston Villa, both Jeremy Doku and Jack Grealish both started for the champions. As last night’s game progressed, the pair showed the creativity that City lacked in their nil-all draw with Arsenal last Sunday. Based on their display at the Etihad Stadium overnight, could the two wingers be a catalyst for the treble winners?
With Jeremy Doku on the right wing and Jack Grealish on the left, Manchester City appeared to have more creativity overnight. Both players put in good showings to open up a new possibility for Pep Guardiola. At times, they both terrorised Unai Emery’s side during the champions’ vital win. The possibility of both players on the pitch is a tantalising prospect to ponder for Manchester City.
Given the service from either flank provided by Doku and Grealish last night, it could also benefit Erling Haaland. The striker struggled with a lack of service against Arsenal. But at points of last night’s win over Aston Villa, you could see how he could prosper with Doku and Grealish on either flank. Some of the delivery from City’s wide men appeared tailor-made for City’s number 9.
During this season, at times, the champions have appeared to lack creativity, especially in wide positions. Given the injury interrupted seasons and at times poor form suffered by Jeremy Doku and Jack Grealish it has robbed City of two natural wingers. But last night was a glimpse at what could be possible during the final stages of the season.
The pairing of Jeremy Doku and Jack Grealish on either wing could be a catalyst to unlock Manchester City’s attack. If last night’s showing can carry forward it may also benefit their star striker during the run home.
More must-reads: