Well, it’s official. Grealish was not included in the Manchester City squad that will travel to the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 because, it seems, the feeling of nostalgia about the treble in 2023 does not provide a ticket to fly to Philadelphia.
It is rather like serving as the best man at the wedding and then not being asked to the honeymoon. A previous swaggering talisman, with steel calves and hair that would not be humbled, Jack Grealish is now, apparently, brought down to earth, not on tactical grounds but perhaps on the Pep bingo card of midfield pairings that is continually being shuffled.
The Curious Case of Mr. Grealish
Let’s be honest—if appearances won trophies, Grealish would’ve captained three Champions League finals by now. But with just seven Premier League starts this season and not even a late jog-on during the FA Cup final, it was clear the writing was spray-painted on the Etihad walls.
And no, he didn’t pull a disappearing act—Guardiola just seemed to prefer his other midfield magicians. Perhaps Jack blinked and found himself behind Doku, Nunes, and even the ghost of Ilkay Gundogan in Pep’s rotation roulette.
Grealish and the €100M Dilemma
Signed for a jaw-dropping £100 million from Aston Villa, Grealish was meant to be City’s crown jewel. Now, he’s closer to being a velvet box collecting dust in the attic. Rumors swirl—clubs across England and Europe are circling, wallets twitching, wondering if Pep’s loss might be their gain.
And who could blame them? Grealish remains one of football’s most marketable assets, with a first touch as soft as silk and the off-field charisma of a Netflix docuseries.
What’s Next for Him?
Could a redemption arc be brewing in Italy or maybe Paris? One thing’s for sure—Grealish being left out might just become the plot twist that reignites his career. A little less bench, a little more brilliance—and maybe fewer minutes explaining his new tattoo in post-match interviews.
So, for now, Manchester City marches on without their £100M charm offensive. And Jack? He’s got the summer to decide if he wants to be Pep’s forgotten man—or someone else’s marquee resurrection.
As featured on ManCityNews.com
