The electric atmosphere of Oasis’ reunion concert at Manchester’s Heaton Park on July 11, 2025, became the backdrop for an emotional outpouring from Jack Grealish, the Manchester City winger whose future at the club hangs in the balance. Excluded from the club’s 27-man squad for the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, Grealish used the occasion to reaffirm his unwavering love for the Citizens and their fans, delivering a heartfelt message that resonated deeply amidst swirling transfer rumors. His words, captured in a candid moment with supporters, underscored a bond that transcends his diminished role under manager Pep Guardiola.
As the Gallagher brothers, lifelong City supporters, filled the night with anthems like “Wonderwall,” Grealish was spotted in the VIP section, joined by Guardiola and his daughter Maria, though the two notably kept their distance. The concert, one of five sold-out shows in Manchester, was a celebration of the city’s cultural and sporting pride, with Liam Gallagher dedicating a song to Guardiola, whom he called “the greatest manager of all time.” But it was Grealish’s interaction with fans that stole the show. Leaning over the VIP barrier, the 29-year-old, appearing lively and possibly fueled by a few drinks, declared, “I love City more than anything! And do you know what I love more than anything? City fans! They’re the best fans in the world!” The crowd erupted, their affection for the England star palpable, with one fan noting, “Him being drunk makes it more genuine as you speak truthfully when drunk,” and another proclaiming, “We love him. We do. And we know he loves us.”
Grealish’s heartfelt words come at a turbulent time. His omission from the Club World Cup squad, announced in June 2025, followed a season where he started just seven Premier League matches, a stark contrast to his pivotal role in City’s 2022-23 treble-winning campaign. Signed for a British-record £100 million from Aston Villa in 2021, Grealish has won three Premier League titles, an FA Cup, a Champions League, and the previous Club World Cup, but his minutes have dwindled, with players like Jeremy Doku and Phil Foden preferred. Guardiola, addressing the snub, explained, “He had a conversation with the club and they decided it was best,” emphasizing that the decision was tactical, not personal. “The only reason he didn’t play was my decision, not because he had behaved badly or anything,” he added, praising Grealish’s character but urging him to “play football every three days” to rediscover his spark, whether at City or elsewhere.
Transfer speculation has intensified, with City setting a £40 million price tag on Grealish, a significant loss on their initial investment. Clubs like Tottenham, Newcastle, Napoli, and even a return to Aston Villa have been linked, though his £300,000-per-week wages make a loan move more likely. England manager Thomas Tuchel underscored the stakes, stating, “He needs to make himself available by playing. It’s one of his key strengths,” hinting that Grealish’s 2026 World Cup hopes hinge on regular game time. Despite the uncertainty, Grealish’s commitment to fitness—evidenced by a June social media post showcasing his “shredded” physique during a holiday run—signals his determination to fight for his place.
City’s disappointing 2024-25 season, marked by a loss to Liverpool in the Premier League, a Champions League exit, and a 1-0 FA Cup final defeat to Crystal Palace, has intensified scrutiny on Guardiola’s squad. Grealish’s limited role, with just one goal and one assist in 20 Premier League games, and his absence from the Club World Cup alongside Kalvin Phillips and James McAtee, fueled reports of a strained relationship with Guardiola. Yet, sources close to the club insist the pair enjoyed a “great night” at the Oasis concert, suggesting no personal rift.
As Grealish navigates an uncertain summer, his emotional exchange with fans at Heaton Park—echoing his past gestures, like a video message to a 106-year-old supporter—reveals a player whose heart remains with City. Whether he stays to reclaim his spot or seeks a new challenge, Grealish’s love for the club and its fans burns bright, a beacon in Manchester’s blue half.
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