Grealish’s Absence from Tour Squad
Jack Grealish has not been included in the Manchester City squad for their pre-season tour in Asia. The winger had returned to pre-season training with the club last week, but was reportedly working individually. His absence from the travelling party is attributed to his ongoing recovery from an injury sustained during his loan spell with Everton last season.
The 30-year-old has not played since January. Manchester City is scheduled to play against Inter Milan in Hong Kong, and then face the K-League All-Stars and Atletico Madrid in South Korea as part of their tour.
Sources indicate that the decision to keep Grealish in Manchester is primarily due to the final stages of his recovery from foot surgery, which he underwent after a season-ending injury in February. The club has opted to keep him in Manchester to complete his rehabilitation before he is reintegrated into full first-team training, aiming to avoid any potential setbacks.
Future at Manchester City
Despite ongoing speculation regarding his future, reports suggest that new head coach Enzo Maresca is determined to provide Grealish with a genuine opportunity to compete for his place. Maresca expressed his affection for the former Aston Villa player during his initial press conference as City manager, stating that Grealish is currently a Manchester City player and it is his duty to coach the players who belong to the club. He also mentioned maintaining a good relationship with Grealish since his previous time at the club, citing Grealish’s character.
Maresca had previously informed sporting director Hugo Viana that he wished to personally assess Grealish before making any decisions about his future. This stance has reportedly remained unchanged. Grealish has also reportedly made it clear that he is committed to fighting for his place in the City squad rather than seeking an immediate departure. His determination has reportedly reinforced Maresca’s belief that he can still play an important role this season.
The England international has undertaken an extensive individual fitness programme throughout the summer to ensure he returned in optimal condition. His commitment has reportedly impressed Maresca since his return to the club.
Potential Transfer Interest
While Grealish’s focus remains on Manchester City, there is reported interest from other clubs should his situation change. Everton, where Grealish spent last season on loan, is reportedly keen to bring him back following his campaign under David Moyes. The Merseyside club has expressed admiration for the player and is prepared to monitor his situation in the coming weeks.
Financially, a return to Everton would likely require assistance from Manchester City. A second loan spell is considered the most realistic option, though a permanent transfer could be explored if Manchester City were to subsidise a portion of Grealish’s wages during the final year of his current contract. Additionally, clubs in both the Saudi Pro League and Major League Soccer have reportedly made enquiries regarding Grealish’s availability. However, those close to the player maintain that his primary focus is on remaining in the Premier League and proving his ability at the highest level of English football.
Grealish’s output since joining Manchester City, including his loan spell at Everton, includes 19 goals and 29 assists in 179 club appearances across all competitions. During his time at Everton, he created 42 chances, a figure only surpassed by James Garner’s 59, and his shot accuracy of 56.25% was behind only Jake O’Brien and Iliman Ndiaye. He also recorded three yellow cards in 22 games for Everton.
The player’s absence from the Asian tour should not be interpreted as a definitive sign of an impending exit.
Source: manchestereveningnews.co.uk
Leo Ashworth is a Sports News Writer at Latest News UK. He cut his teeth on regional sport before specialising in fast breaking-news writing. He focuses on rugby union, golf and boxing and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. He holds a degree in Journalism from the University of Central Lancashire and completed an NCTJ diploma. Now based in Newcastle, he follows the European Tour and boxes at an amateur gym. “Get it right first, then tell readers why it matters.”