Pep Guardiola lauds Jack Grealish after dedicating goal to late brother

Manchester City head coach Pep Guardiola hailed his team’s midfielder Jack Grealish after he dedicated his goal against Leicester City at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday night. Grealish scored early in the second minute of the game and dedicated the goal to his late brother Keelan.

Wednesday marked the 25th anniversary of his passing and Grealish posted on social media: “With me always, especially this day. That was for you, Keelan.”

Keelan was just nine months old when he died in April 2000, when Jack was just four.

“Jack is an incredible human being,” said Guardiola.

“I didn’t know [about the anniversary]. I can’t imagine how tough it can be for mum and dad, his sister and all the family.

“It’s good that this day he remembers him. I’m pretty sure they remember every single day. He scored a goal and made a good game.”

This was the English footballer’s first league goal of the season after a frustrating season with injuries and poor form. Guardiola gave an opportunity to Grealish in the middle and he was able to grab it with both hands.

“He likes to play in the middle,” added Guardiola.

“He’s a guy who used to play free. He’s comfortable playing on the side. Always between the lines he has ability. I’m happy for him. I know it’s not easy when you don’t play regularly. Last game in the FA Cup he played really good.”

This loss leaves Leicester City in the 19th place in the Premier League standings and they are on the verge of relegation with only eight games remaining.

“For me, the most important thing is I stay at it and evaluate the games and be the best manager I can be in this situation,” said manager Ruud van Nistelrroy. “That is my job, in an extremely difficult moment. I expect myself to be the first one to react in a good way.”

Manchester City will next take on derby rivals Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday.