Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding Jack Grealish’s future at the club. Despite leaving the former Aston Villa star out of the squad for the final game of the season, Guardiola did not rule out the possibility of Grealish staying. However, the manager emphasized that the decision would ultimately be made by Grealish, his agent, and the club. Grealish’s situation at City has been uncertain for some time, as he has started only one league game in 2025 and has often been an unused substitute, despite being fit.
Pep Guardiola said: “It was selection. The last two months, month and a half, there were five or six players at home every time and this time I decided for these guys. No more than that. Of course Jack has to play. 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 – with us or another place. It’s a question for Jack, his agent, and the club. If he stays it will be fine and he fought like he fought from day one to make a contribution but not today. For example, the FA Cup final I rotated and Rico and Macca were not there and Khusanov and Vitor and Echeverri were here so it’s the same. I tried to move the players like it was there and today it was Jack, no more than that.”
Guardiola remained non-committal about his personal preference for Grealish’s future but highlighted his efforts to both sign and retain the player in previous transfer windows. The manager reiterated his support for Grealish, emphasizing that his decisions are not personal but rather a result of managing a large squad.
Guardiola added: “Don’t ask me about Jack. Who said I’m not happy with Jack? Rico was not selected, McAtee was exceptional against Aston Villa and Wolves – why not ask me about McAtee? It’s not personal. I have 24 players, I have to get rid of six players last game and five players today because Kovacic got sent off. I treat Jack like I think of Khusanov, McAtee and all the players who have not been but you say I’m selecting we are in trouble? It’s not about that.”
The situation underscores the challenges Guardiola faces with squad rotation, especially with a roster as deep as Manchester City’s. The manager’s comments suggest that while Grealish’s talent is undeniable, the competition for places and tactical decisions have influenced his limited playing time. As the summer transfer window approaches, Grealish’s future remains a topic of interest, with his next move potentially pivotal for both the player and the club.
