Jack Grealish has become subject to criticism following an uninspired display in the Champions League as Manchester City scrambled to a 2-1 win over Borussia Dortmund. The 27-year-old was dragged from proceedings a few minutes shy of the hour-mark after failing to record a single successful dribble, successful tackle, accurate cross or win an aerial duel.
While Grealish, who sees his contract at the Etihad Stadium run until 2027, has contributed towards a Premier League title since joining Pep Guardiola's side, he hasn't quite recaptured the bright form he enjoyed at Aston Villa. The England international has directly contributed towards just 10 goals in 44 games for City, meaning that the champions of England have spent - on average - £10million a goal or assist.
Arsenal were heavily linked with a move for Grealish prior to the winger penning a deal at City. Now, he faces an increasingly uncertain future at the Etihad.
READ MORE: Arsenal's Premier League squad confirmed as Bukayo Saka and William Saliba absence explained
So, with that being said, football.london has taken a look at the times when Grealish flirted with Arsenal from when he was once heavily linked to the Gunners.
Grealish likes new anthem 'The Angel'
In May, Grealish gave his verdict on Louis Dunford's new Arsenal anthem 'The Angel' after it was trialled for the first time at the Emirates Stadium before kick-off against Leeds United. The song, which went viral on Twitter a few weeks prior, has become a top hit among fans with it celebrating the history of Islington and the area surrounding the ground.
After the game, Dunford posted a message on Instagram to thank supporters and the club. And, Grealish was one of many replies congratulating the artist on the track. Accompanied with clapping emojis, the City winger commented: "Class bro."
Ben White message
In July last year when White swapped the Amex Stadium for the Emirates Stadium, Grealish sent the defender a classy message on Instagram. White posted a photo of him holding up his new Gunners shirt and the Aston Villa star commented: "Congrats brother. Fully deserved (clapping and football emojis)."
Inseparable mates
Following Arsenal's 3-1 win over Southampton in January 2021, Bukayo Saka posted a message on Instagram. Alongside a number of emojis, he wrote: "Goal, assist and 3 points. Perfect Tuesday night. Enjoy Gunners," .
With a shooting star and football emoji, Grealish quickly responded with a simple comment that read: "Starboyyyyyy."
On another occasion, Saka and Grealish were seen embracing during a meeting led by Gareth Southgate at an England training session.
Close contact with Saka
They are said to be in a Whatsapp group-chat together called 'The Avengers'. Dele Alli, James Maddison, Ben Chilwell, John McGinn and Ross Barkley are also said to be in the group-chat.
Saka even dedicated a goal he scored against Newcastle in January 2021 to the aforementioned group-chat, tagging Grealish and Chilwell in his Instagram story.
Grealish's favourite ground
Following Arsenal's clash with Aston Villa at the Emirates Stadium last year, Grealish posted a picture on Instagram of him in action with the caption: "Pleasure to play at this place. My favourite stadium in the Prem.
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