Jack Grealish, the charismatic Manchester City winger, finds himself at a pivotal moment in his career following his exclusion from the club’s 27-man squad for the FIFA Club World Cup, set to kick off in the United States on June 15, 2025. The 29-year-old, once a £100 million record signing, has broken his silence amid swirling speculation about his next move, with reports suggesting he may favor a transfer to Everton. As Pep Guardiola reshapes his squad, Grealish’s limited playing time and this latest snub have fueled discussions about his future, both at club level and with England’s national team.
Grealish’s omission from the Club World Cup squad, confirmed on June 11, 2025, was hardly a shock given his diminished role at the Etihad Stadium. The 2024-25 Premier League season saw him start just seven league matches, a stark contrast to his influential performances during City’s 2023 treble-winning campaign. New signings like Rayan Ait-Nouri, Rayan Cherki, and Tijjani Reijnders have been included in the tournament squad, signaling Guardiola’s intent to refresh the team after a trophyless season. “Of course, Jack has to play,” Guardiola said after City’s final league game, a 2-0 win over Fulham where Grealish was left out entirely. “He’s an unbelievable player that has to play football every three days. It didn’t happen this season and last season either. He needs to do it—with us or another place.”
The decision to leave Grealish behind allows him and his representatives to focus on securing a move before the summer transfer window closes on September 1, 2025. Reports indicate that Everton, now preparing for their new stadium, is a preferred destination, with the club’s financial backing making a deal feasible. Grealish, who has two years left on his £300,000-a-week contract, is said to have accepted that a fresh start is necessary. However, his high wages and the £100 million fee City paid Aston Villa in 2021 could complicate negotiations, potentially pointing toward a loan move. “If Grealish is to leave, it would be a complicated deal,” noted a source close to the situation. “He feels like he has a lot to offer at the highest level.”
Grealish’s response to his exclusion came via Instagram, where he posted a serene video of himself at sea, suggesting a reflective mindset as he contemplates his next chapter. The post followed a fiery exchange on social media, where he clapped back at critics questioning his form. When one fan claimed he had been “bad lately,” Grealish retorted, “Haha, I’ve been bad lately? Scored 3 goals in my last 3 appearances over 45 mins but okie dokie love x.” He also challenged another detractor, asking, “What u want me to do, score a hatty in 20?” His defiance underscores a player determined to prove his worth, whether at City or elsewhere.
The winger’s struggles at City have also impacted his international career. Omitted from England’s Euro 2024 squad, Grealish last played for the Three Lions in a 3-1 Nations League win over Finland in October 2024. With the 2026 World Cup approaching, England manager Thomas Tuchel has made it clear that regular playing time is crucial for Grealish’s return. “I love Jack,” Tuchel said. “He’s not a start-stop player. It’s hard for him to influence a match from the bench. He gets better with every minute.” Grealish’s desire to reclaim his England spot adds urgency to his search for a club where he can play consistently.
A product of Aston Villa’s academy, Grealish captained the club before his blockbuster move to City, where he won three Premier League titles, a Champions League, and an FA Cup. Yet, his limited starts over the past two seasons—10 in 2023-24 and seven in 2024-25—have left him on the fringes. Guardiola, who fought to sign and retain Grealish, remains supportive but pragmatic. “It’s not personal,” he said after the Fulham game. “I’m the one who said: ‘I want Jack Grealish.’ What happens in the future is a job for his agents and the club.”
As City prepare for their Club World Cup opener against Wydad Casablanca on June 18 in Philadelphia, Grealish’s absence marks a turning point. Interest from Premier League clubs, including Everton, and teams abroad suggests he won’t lack options. A loan move, similar to Jadon Sancho’s stint away from Manchester United, could offer a chance to rediscover his form. “Jack is really focused and wants to play regularly,” a source said. “If it’s at City, he’ll fight, or he’ll go and play somewhere else.”
Grealish’s journey, from Villa’s hometown hero to City’s treble-winner, has been one of highs and lows. As he navigates this career crossroads, his talent and personality remain undeniable. Whether he joins Everton, stays to fight for his place, or explores opportunities abroad, Grealish’s next move will be one to watch, with the football world eager to see where this dynamic playmaker lands.
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