Grealish's mum got him pumped for game with text as friends warned him of Real Madrid star

The 27-year-old played the full 90 minutes at the Santiago Bernabeu, as Pep Guardiola's side drew 1-1 on Tuesday night.

Vinicius Jr opened the scoring with a sublime effort for Real Madrid, before it was cancelled out by Kevin de Bruyne's sensational strike.

Grealish has since opened up on the special relationship he has with his mum, having received a message prior to the clash.

"I had a text from my mum before the game saying these are the nights you dreamed of as a kid," he said post-match.

"Everyone in the world was watching. Sometimes you pinch yourself. This is the life, innit."

The 27-year-old had initially struggled since his big money move from Aston Villa in 2021, but has arguably been Man City's most improved player.

Despite the goals, Grealish's battle with Dani Carvajal was certainly and interesting sub-plot on the night.

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After De Bruyne floated an over hit cross into the area, Grealish tried to keep the ball in play.

Madrid full-back Carvajal still decided to shove him in the back to send the England international into the advertising hoardings.

As he was on the floor, the attacker could be seen with his arms out in frustration, before then making slight contact with Carvajal.

The Spaniard then flung himself down to the ground, holding his head, before his teammate Alaba pulled him to his feet.

"Playing against [Dani] Carvajal, I can't count the amount of people who told me before you don't know what it's going to be like," Grealish said.

"Good battle, I really enjoyed it. I am tired. I've never had cramp before but I had it both calves.

"We've all seen games where they've conceded a few goals but tonight they defended really well.

"I thought we're only going to score from a shot on the edge of the box. When it fell to Kevin, it was unbelievable. We see it every day in training. You wouldn't choose anyone else for it to fall to."