City’s Grealish shines on Champions League debut

Manchester City winger Jack Grealish crowned a fine display on his Champions League debut with a beautifully taken solo goal as Pep Guardiola’s side outscored RB Leipzig 6-3 at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday.

Grealish, who joined City for £100m (R2bn) last month from Aston Villa, created their opener with a corner headed in by Nathan Ake before making it 4-2 with a curling shot into the far corner.

The England international said that he had been thrilled to finally get a chance on the European club stage.

“I loved it. I’ve been waiting a while.

“The past few weeks, I couldn’t wait for this game.

“It’s been a great night,” the 26-year-old said.

“It was one of those games. It had absolutely everything.

“In the end we’re delighted to get the win against a good team full of energy and young players,” he said.

“I’m delighted to come away with the three points — and the goal and assist.”

Though it was a quality finish from Grealish, it was typical of his approach, receiving the ball wide on the left before cutting into the area and pulling the trigger.

“The ball came to me and when I’m in that position, running into the area I’d back myself one on one against anyone to have a go and it paid off,” he said.

City manager Pep Guardiola praised Grealish for his display but was also quick to hail the performance of Leipzig for their relentless spirit. “Leipzig never give up. “They have a special way to attack. They play all or nothing,” he said.

“You never have the feeling it’s over.