'When I arrived, Grealish was like Messi but with right foot'

BeSoccer 3 years ago 2.3k
Praise for Grealish. AFP

Emiliano Martinez, Aston Villa goalkeeper and therefore former team-mate of Jack Grealish before he left for Manchester City, analysed the midfielder in a statement to 'Football Daily'. The goalkeeper was quick to spot his quality and even ventured to compare him to PSG's Leo Messi.

When Emiliano Martinez witnessed Jack Grealish's abilities on the front line, he reminded him of Leo Messi with the only difference being his good leg. The goalkeeper, in a statement to 'Football Daily', spoke about the departure of his former teammate to Manchester City. It bothered him because he is aware of how much he contributes, although he was happy for him.

"It was a shame. Personally, I was upset because he is a player who makes a difference. He's a different player. I remember when I came here he was like Messi but with the right foot. There is a lot of talent in him. He gave a lot to this football club, but we understood his dreams. He also wanted to play in the Champions League and aim for everything," he said.

"We lose Jack, but the club has made some very good signings and we will definitely fight even harder and higher than last season," he continued. They had time to live together for just one season, the 2020-21 season, in which the Argentine took his first steps as a Villain after joining from Arsenal.

Now, it is quite likely that he will face him as a rival, as Aston Villa and Manchester City share a common status and the Sky Blues will be one of the most formidable contenders in the Premier League. It would not be surprising if, soon, fans were to see some action involving the two, either in favour of one or the other.

 

Mentioned in the news story

Premier League
Aston Villa
Manchester City
L. Messi
Jack Grealish
Emiliano Martínez