Manchester City midfielder Jack Grealish may be on his way out this summer, with former City goalkeeper Shay Given suggesting that his time at the club is coming to an end. Grealish, who turned 29 this year, joined City from Aston Villa in 2021 for £100m, a British transfer record at the time.
During his three seasons under Pep Guardiola, the England international has lifted three Premier League trophies, the FA Cup, and the Champions League. Despite his success, Grealish has seen his role diminish during the current campaign.
Limited involvement and missed opportunities
This season, Grealish has made only 16 starts across all competitions and has played just 1,520 minutes – less than half of his total from the previous year when City secured the European title. In the recent FA Cup final, where City lost to Crystal Palace, he remained on the bench. He was also left out during the team’s defeat to Manchester United in the 2024 final at Wembley.
Former Villa teammate Given, speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live’s Monday Night Club, expressed frustration over Grealish’s situation. He described the winger as a “generational talent” who is being underutilized, especially in crucial games. Given questioned why Grealish was included in the squad if he was not going to feature, adding that the player’s potential is being wasted.
The ex-goalkeeper also pointed out that Grealish could fill a central role in midfield, especially with Kevin De Bruyne set to depart in the summer. However, Given now doubts whether Grealish will play for City again.
Possible departure and salary concerns
With his playing time decreasing, speculation about Grealish’s departure is growing. The club is expected to assess the situation with input from outgoing director of football Txiki Begiristain, incoming replacement Hugo Viana, and the player’s representatives.
Guardiola stated that he had not personally discussed Grealish’s future with him and said that any decision would be made between the club officials and the player’s agents. The manager acknowledged that Grealish, like any player, would not be content with a limited role.
Although several clubs across Europe may be interested in signing the midfielder, his reported weekly wage of £300,000 could be a barrier. Nonetheless, there is a belief that Grealish could benefit from a fresh start elsewhere, where he would be guaranteed more regular playing time.
With City currently sitting sixth in the Premier League and facing the possibility of missing out on the Champions League, the summer may bring significant changes – including a possible exit for Jack Grealish.
