Jack Grealish's future at Manchester City has become increasingly uncertain after the recent announcement that he has been omitted from the club's squad for the upcoming Club World Cup in the United States. This decision, coupled with his limited playing time this past season, has ignited speculation about a potential move away from the Etihad Stadium.
Grealish, who joined Manchester City from Aston Villa in 2021 for a then-record British transfer fee of £100 million, has struggled to consistently secure a starting position under Pep Guardiola. Despite being a part of the team's historic treble-winning campaign in the 2022-23 season, his appearances have become less frequent, with only seven Premier League starts in the most recent season.
Guardiola himself has acknowledged Grealish's need for regular playing time. Following the final game of the season against Fulham, where Grealish was absent from the squad, Guardiola stated that Grealish "has to play football every three days," suggesting that it needs to happen "with us, or another place." This sentiment has fueled rumors of a potential transfer, with several clubs reportedly interested in acquiring the 29-year-old winger.
The decision to exclude Grealish from the Club World Cup squad appears to be a significant indicator of his standing within the team. Several reports suggest that Manchester City are open to considering offers for Grealish if serious interest emerges during the summer transfer window. The club is also in the process of refreshing its squad with new signings, further casting doubt on Grealish's future at the club. Tijjani Reijnders, Rayan Cherki and Rayan Ait-Nouri are all set to join the team.
However, a move away from Manchester City may not be straightforward. Grealish has two years remaining on his contract and earns a reported £300,000 per week, which could limit the number of clubs capable of meeting his wage demands. Despite the potential challenges, Grealish is reportedly focused on playing regular first-team football and regaining his place in the England squad. This ambition may require a fresh start at a new club.
Several Premier League clubs have been linked with a move for Grealish, including his former club Aston Villa, Newcastle United and Everton. A return to Aston Villa would be an emotional reunion for the boyhood Villan, while Newcastle and Everton could offer him the opportunity to be a key player in their respective squads. Napoli are also said to be weighing up a move.
Former Premier League star Alan Shearer believes that Grealish's best position is coming off the left wing, but he doubts Newcastle would make a move for him due to the presence of Harvey Barnes and Anthony Gordon in that position. Shearer also stated that "it looks from the outside there's no future for him at Man City. Not whilst Pep is there."
Despite the speculation surrounding his future, Grealish has responded to critics on social media, asserting his desire to play regularly and contribute to a team. He has stated that he will fight for his place at City if he stays, or he will seek opportunities elsewhere.
The coming weeks will likely be crucial in determining Jack Grealish's future. Whether he remains at Manchester City to fight for his place or seeks a new challenge at another club, the talented winger will be aiming to reignite his career and fulfill his potential.