Jack Grealish says he'll always be an Aston Villa fan, despite his €117m move to Manchester City.
The former Republic of Ireland U21 international signed a six-year deal at the Etihad on Thursday, in the Premier League's most expensive transfer.
Grealish was a product of Villa's youth system and, after a loan spell at Notts County, made his senior debut at the age of 18 in a 4-0 defeat away to his new club Manchester City.
He's penned a parting letter to Villa, thanking everyone involved for his time at the club.
❤️ @AVFCOfficial pic.twitter.com/gA2SbUspbP
— Jack Grealish (@JackGrealish) August 5, 2021
Grealish wrote:
I've been at Aston Villa for 19 years and I've been a fan my whole life.
I've come up through the ranks and captained my club to the top tier of English football. It's impossible to put my feelings into words, but I'll try.
When I first came to Villa, I had my own personal dreams and ambitions like getting into the first team, scoring my first goal and scoring the winner in a derby.
It wasn't until we got relegated that I felt a greater sense of purpose.
Every time I put on the Villa shirt, I played with my heart on my sleeve, being given the armband was both a privilege and an honour for me and my family and I've loved every minute of it.
I want to thank the manager and my teammates, I'll never forget everything we achieved together... and to the fans who have supported me through everything, I can't thank you enough.
To all my coaches, and all the people who work at the club behind the scenes who have done so much for me over the years - thank you.
I'll always be a Villa fan - I love this club with all my heart and I hope you understand my reasons for seeking a new challenge.
The club are in great hands, the manager, the lads, the new signings coming in - it's an exciting time to be a Villa fan.
I'll see you again soon.
Until next time - UTV.
Manchester City complete record €117m signing of Jack Grealish
