In a seismic shift at Manchester City, Jack Grealish’s future at the Etihad Stadium appears all but over as manager Pep Guardiola has left the England star out of the club’s 27-man squad for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the United States. The decision, confirmed on June 11, 2025, marks a pivotal moment for the 29-year-old midfielder, who is reportedly eyeing a move to Everton as his preferred destination in the Premier League. Grealish’s omission from the squad signals the end of a rollercoaster tenure with City, where he once dazzled as a key figure in their 2023 Treble triumph but has since struggled to maintain his place in Guardiola’s plans.
Grealish, who joined Manchester City from Aston Villa in 2021 for a British record £100 million, was once a cornerstone of the team’s success. His flair, ball-carrying ability, and knack for drawing fouls made him a fan favorite during City’s dominant run, which included three Premier League titles, a Champions League crown, and an FA Cup. However, the 2024-25 season was a stark contrast. Grealish started just seven Premier League matches, scoring only one goal and providing one assist in 20 appearances. His limited game time culminated in high-profile snubs, including being left out of the matchday squad for City’s final Premier League game against Fulham and watching from the bench as 19-year-old Claudio Echeverri debuted in the FA Cup final loss to Crystal Palace. “Of course, Jack has to play,” Guardiola said after the Fulham omission, emphasizing the need for regular minutes. “I’m the one who said I want Jack Grealish. But he has to play every three days, and that didn’t happen this season or last season.”
The Club World Cup exclusion is the latest blow, with Guardiola opting for new signings like Rayan Ait-Nouri, Rayan Cherki, Tijjani Reijnders, and Marcus Bettinelli, alongside young talents like Echeverri. This decision reflects City’s aggressive squad overhaul following a trophyless season, their worst under Guardiola. The manager’s preference for players in top form, such as Brazilian winger Savinho, who he noted was “in better shape” than Grealish, underscores the ruthless selection process. “Savinho is in better shape and everything than Jack, and that’s why I played Savinho,” Guardiola explained earlier this year. “Do I want the Jack that won the Treble? Yeah, I want it, but I try to be honest with myself for that.”
Grealish’s response to his fading role has been defiant. After facing criticism on social media, he hit back at a fan’s claim that he’d “been bad lately,” retorting, “Haha I’ve been bad lately?” His frustration is palpable, and the Club World Cup snub has fueled speculation about his next move. Everton has emerged as the frontrunner, with reports indicating Grealish favors a switch to Goodison Park to revive his career under manager Sean Dyche. The Toffees see Grealish as a marquee signing to bolster their attack, and the player believes regular minutes could restore his spark and secure a spot in England’s 2026 World Cup squad. England manager Thomas Tuchel, who omitted Grealish from recent international matches, emphasized the need for consistent play: “He needs to make himself available by playing. That’s just missing, nothing else.”
Other Premier League clubs, including Tottenham Hotspur, Newcastle United, and Grealish’s boyhood club Aston Villa, have been linked, but Everton’s interest appears most concrete. A loan move is a strong possibility due to Grealish’s £300,000-per-week wages, which could complicate a permanent transfer. City, aware they won’t recoup their £100 million investment, are open to both options, with Guardiola noting, “What happens in the future is a job for Txiki (Begiristain), Hugo (Viana), and the agents.” Interest from European clubs exists, but Grealish prefers to stay in the Premier League to maintain his visibility ahead of the World Cup.
As Manchester City prepare to face Wydad AC on June 18 in Philadelphia, Grealish’s absence marks a turning point. His departure seems inevitable, with the winger poised to explore options during the transfer window. For a player who once lit up the Etihad with his swagger and skill, the move to Everton could offer a fresh start. “It’s not anything personal about Jack,” Guardiola insisted, acknowledging his past contributions. Yet, as City embrace a new era with fresh faces, Grealish’s journey lies elsewhere, and the Premier League awaits his next chapter.
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