Manchester City’s wing dilemma: Grealish’s uncertain future

Manchester City face a shortage of reliable left‑wing options after Jeremy Doku cemented his place, and the unexpected return of 30‑year‑old Jack Grealish on Sunday offers a potential answer. The former Villa star, who missed pre‑season, entered at half‑time in the 3‑0 Community Shield loss to Arsenal in Cardiff.

Image source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Grealish made a fast start during a spell on loan last season with Everton. The caption noted his rapid impact during that spell.

Loan spell leaves future uncertain

Grealish's career with Manchester City seemed finished when he spent last season on loan at Everton, but the Toffees did not make the move permanent. Everton declined a rumored £50 million valuation, leaving the 30‑year‑old without a settled club. Man fans will be watching the outcome closely.

Contract and market options

City retain Grealish on a contract that pays £300,000 a week with one year remaining. The club could consider lower offers or further loans now that the transfer window remains open. Enzo Maresca said the squad will work daily and minutes will go to those who deserve them.

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Grealish entered the Community Shield match at half‑time, playing 45 minutes on the left wing. He completed 21 of 24 passes and delivered a couple of crosses, 5 Live pundit Pat Nevin.

Manchester City paid £100 million to sign Grealish from Aston Villa in 2021. He featured regularly in his first two seasons and helped the club win the treble in 2022‑23, including the Champions League final against Inter Milan.

Since then his league starts have dwindled, with only ten Premier League starts the following season and seven in 2024‑25, while Jeremy Doku took his place. He was also omitted from the Club World Cup squad.

Potential destinations include a return to Everton on loan, a move back to his boyhood club Aston Villa, or an overseas switch to Atletico Madrid, which has been linked with him. Any deal will depend on his recovery from the foot surgery he underwent in January and the window closing in two weeks.