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England Premier League champions Manchester City on Thursday confirmed the signing of compatriot Aston Villa international Jack Grealish in a record-breaking deal estimated by the media at £ 100million ($ 139million, $ 117million ‘euros).
And Manchester City have explained that Grealish will wear the number 10 shirt worn by the club’s historic top scorer, international striker Sergio Aguero, who has moved to Barcelona.
Grealish, 25, said: “I am very happy to join Manchester City. City are the best team in the country with a manager considered to be the best in the world – it is a dream come true to be part of this club.”
Manchester City’s contract with Grealish wiped out the most expensive deal in English club history, when neighbor Manchester United paid £ 89million to sign French international midfielder Paul Pogba from Juventus in 2016.
“Over the past 10 seasons, City have consistently won major trophies. The arrival of Pep Guardiola has taken them to the next level and the football this team plays is the most exciting in Europe.”
“Playing under Pep’s direction and learning from him would be something special and it’s something any better footballer would want,” he added, noting that “the facilities are excellent, and honestly I have can’t wait to get started, meet everyone and start playing. “
News reports also said Manchester City activated the penalty clause in Grealish’s contract, forcing Aston Villa to forgo his services when the offer reached £ 100million, knowing his contract with him was due to expire after four. years.
Grealish resumed training for his team last Monday after a vacation in Dubrovnik, Croatia.
Grealish grew up with Aston Villa and was once loaned to Notts County during the 2013-2014 season. He has played for Aston Villa 213 games since the start of his career in 2014, scoring 32 goals and providing 43 assists.
Manchester City director of football Txiki Begiristain called Grealish a “super talent”.
“Jack’s development over the past few seasons through the club and the country is evident to everyone,” he said. “His natural talent combined with his commitment to development as a player has made him one of the most exciting strikers in world football today.”
“I’m sure the fans will love to see him in our squad. Pep loves the way he plays, and we all think he is a perfect match for Manchester City.”
“Our style and his style are a perfect match. I am delighted to see him in the years to come.”
Grealish admitted it was not an easy decision to leave his childhood club in Birmingham.
“Obviously it’s been a tough month because I’ve been an Aston Villa fan my whole life,” he said.
“But when I spoke to the coach here and you see what kind of players they’ve joined here, it’s finally something that I couldn’t refuse. I’m very happy to be here.”
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