Jack Grealish unexpectedly returned to the Man City squad in the 0-3 defeat to Arsenal in the Community Shield. However, this comeback is not enough to guarantee the future of the English midfielder at the Etihad.
Grealish seemed to have left Man City after being loaned to Everton in the 2025-2026 season. However, Everton did not turn the deal into an official contract and the 30-year-old player had to return to Manchester.
Grealish did not play any matches in the pre-season period but was brought on by Enzo Maresca right at the beginning of the second half against Arsenal, replacing Jeremy Doku. He played 45 minutes in the left winger position, completing 21/24 passes and creating a few notable situations.
In general, Jack Grealish played well. The remaining players will continue to train and if they perform well, they will have the opportunity to play. The transfer window is still ongoing, so we will wait and see what happens" - Maresca commented.
This is Grealish's first time wearing the Man City shirt since May 2025. He had an impressive start after moving from Aston Villa for £100 million in 2021. This player contributed to the treble in the 2022-2023 season, starting in the Champions League final, where Man City defeated Inter Milan.
But Grealish's position gradually decreased afterwards. He only started 10 Premier League matches in the 2023-2024 season and 7 matches in the following season. Jeremy Doku gradually took the left flank, while Grealish was even dropped from the Man City squad for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
Last season, the time playing for Everton on loan once opened up new hopes for the 30-year-old player. Grealish had an impressive start when he won the Premier League Player of the Month award in August after 4 assists in the first 3 matches.
Receiving that title is a great honor and I am very happy for him, because everyone knows Jack Grealish has returned. He returned with the right mindset, ready to contribute and has made a big difference for the team. This is just the beginning of Jack Grealish" - David Moyes said.
However, a leg injury in January caused Grealish to be sidelined for the rest of the season.
Will Grealish stay at Man City or leave?
Maresca is giving Grealish a chance to prove himself, but the future of this midfielder is still uncertain. Grealish is said to receive a salary of 300,000 pounds/week and only one year left on his contract. Man City may consider selling or continuing to loan him out if they receive a suitable offer.
Everton still wants to bring Grealish back, while Aston Villa is mentioned as a potential destination. Besides, Atletico Madrid is also interested in the English player. However, after his return to Cardiff, Grealish still has a chance to convince Maresca that he has not finished his time at Man City.
The reappearance against Arsenal cannot decide Grealish's future, but at least he has had the opportunity to send a positive signal to Maresca. Man City still has two weeks to consider a suitable option, while Grealish also needs to take advantage of every minute of play to prove his ability.
