Jack Grealish, once hailed as the £100 million man who helped Manchester City secure a historic Treble in 2023, finds himself at a career crossroads. The 29-year-old England star has agreed to train individually at the Etihad Stadium, a move that signals his likely departure from the club this summer. After a challenging 2024-25 season marked by limited playing time, injuries, and a trophyless campaign for the Citizens, Grealish’s future is in limbo as he seeks a fresh start to revive his stalled career. With interest from multiple clubs, including Premier League sides and European giants, the coming weeks will be pivotal for the former Aston Villa captain as he aims to reclaim his place among football’s elite.
Grealish’s struggles at Manchester City have been stark. After joining from Aston Villa in 2021 for a then-record British transfer fee, he played a key role in City’s 2022-23 Treble, winning the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League. However, his role has diminished significantly. In the 2024-25 season, he started just seven Premier League matches, producing three goals and five assists across 33 appearances. Injuries and competition from younger talents like Jeremy Doku and Savinho saw him relegated to the bench, with Pep Guardiola leaving him unused in 10 matches during the second half of the campaign. His omission from City’s 27-man squad for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the United States was a clear sign that his time at the Etihad is nearing an end. “Of course Jack has to play,” Guardiola said in May. “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, and that’s with us, or another place.”
The decision to train alone, as Grealish awaits a transfer, is not a punishment but a practical step to maintain his fitness. With City’s main squad not due back until July 28, Grealish has been working with personal trainer Jamie Reynolds, including a rigorous off-season stint in Dubai. “Another great off season in the bank with this legend,” Reynolds posted on Instagram, highlighting Grealish’s commitment to returning to peak condition. This dedication is crucial as Grealish eyes regular playing time to secure a spot in England’s 2026 World Cup squad under Thomas Tuchel, who has hinted that consistent club football is essential for Grealish’s international aspirations.
Three clubs have emerged as potential destinations. In the Premier League, West Ham United has discussed a loan move, though their interest hinges on the future of Lucas Paqueta and the preferences of new head coach Graham Potter. Everton has also been linked with an ambitious loan bid, offering Grealish a chance to stay in England’s top flight. Across Europe, Napoli, led by Antonio Conte, sees Grealish as a potential replacement for Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who moved to Paris Saint-Germain. Conte values Grealish’s dribbling and ability to draw fouls, traits that could thrive in Serie A’s tactical battles. “I think you’re going to see a new role for him… as a No.8 – just driving out of midfield,” former striker Troy Deeney suggested, envisioning Grealish reinventing himself at a club like Newcastle, though the Magpies’ financial constraints under PSR rules complicate a deal.
A return to Aston Villa, Grealish’s boyhood club, remains a romantic but unlikely prospect. Villa’s 91% wage-to-revenue ratio in 2024 limits their ability to match Grealish’s £200,000-a-week salary, even with a pay cut, and manager Unai Emery’s tactical preferences may not align with Grealish’s style. “Genuinely for him, I always think if you go back, there’s an expectation you’re going to be that person you was when you left,” Deeney noted, cautioning against a Villa reunion. Tottenham, another long-linked club, faces financial hurdles with over £330 million in unpaid transfer fees, making a move challenging.
Grealish’s preference for a permanent transfer over a loan reflects his desire for stability, though City’s willingness to accept a £40-50 million fee—half their initial investment—acknowledges his diminished market value. A loan remains possible, with City potentially covering part of his wages to facilitate a move. Saudi clubs have also been mentioned, offering a lucrative option if Grealish prioritizes earnings over competition.
Despite his uncertain future, Grealish’s affection for Manchester City remains evident. At a recent Oasis concert in Manchester’s Heaton Park, he told fans, “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 clip, widely shared online, sparked mixed reactions, with one fan noting, “Him being drunk makes it more genuine as you speak truthfully when drunk.” Yet, Guardiola has emphasized that Grealish’s limited minutes are not personal. “The only reason he didn’t play minutes was me, not because he was incorrect or whatever,” he said, praising Grealish’s professionalism.
As the transfer window progresses, Grealish’s next move will hinge on compromises over wages and fees. With his flair for dribbling and transitional play, clubs like Napoli or West Ham could unlock the Treble-winning version of Grealish that thrilled fans in 2023. For now, he trains alone, a star in limbo, determined to rediscover the spark that once made him England’s most expensive footballer.
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