Manchester City’s record signing Jack Grealish has opened up on how John Terry influenced his decision to leave Aston Villa.
The England international, 25, became the most expensive British player in history when City paid £100million for him last week.
He will provide Pep Guardiola with yet another option in attacking areas as the tactician looks to end City’s Champions League heartache.
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Grealish and Terry worked together for four years at Villa, during the former England captain’s time as a player and coach.
Speaking about his transfer, Grealish said: “I remember speaking to John Terry at Villa and he said when you stand there and hear that Champions League anthem there is nothing better.
“It has been difficult watching (Champions League) games. I remember watching City v PSG last year and the first half was amazing. To be involved would be a dream come true.
“When you see a club paying that much for a player it means they trust and value you highly and see so much potential. Now I just hope I can repay this football club by winning as many titles as possible — and winning that trophy we all want.
“The club were so close to winning it last year, they were one goal away. That is exactly why I have come here. I look around the changing room and there is so much talent and depth and I fully believe we can win it this year.”
Grealish has been given the number 10 shirt at the Etihad. It was recently vacated by club legend Sergio Aguero when he opted to join Barcelona on a free transfer.
Grealish will compete with the likes of Raheem Sterling and Phil Foden for a starting place this season.
However, his arrival could spell the end of Bernardo Silva’s City career.
The Portugual international has signalled his desire to leave so he can become a key player elsewhere.
When asked about Silva at a recent press conference, Guardiola said: “Not just Bernardo, there are two, three, four players who want to leave. But they are our players under contract and when they bring some offers and want to leave, we are open to discuss for absolutely everything with all the players in the squad.”
He’s since been linked with a surprise move to Arsenal, which could cost around £45million.