Four years ago, Jack Grealish was the toast of English football. His record-breaking £100 million transfer from Aston Villa to Manchester City in 2021 made headlines worldwide, crowning him the most expensive English player in history. The move was seen as a bold statement by Pep Guardiola, signaling City’s commitment to dominating both domestically and in Europe.
But fast forward to 2025, and the narrative around Grealish has shifted dramatically. What was once hailed as a landmark transfer now seems to have lost its shine. Despite his undoubted talent, Grealish is now reportedly on the verge of leaving Manchester City—and what’s even more surprising is that no club appears willing to make a serious move for him.
A Harsh Reality Behind the Record Price Tag
When City splashed out nine figures to bring Grealish to the Etihad, expectations were sky-high. With dazzling footwork, vision, and an ability to unlock defenses, he was seen as the perfect fit for Guardiola’s attacking system. Initially, Grealish showed glimpses of brilliance, especially in City’s treble-winning 2022/23 season.
However, his performances have not consistently matched his price tag. Injuries, inconsistency, and increasing competition within the City squad have all played a part in diminishing his role.
Now, as City looks to offload him, things are proving far more complicated than expected. The club has reportedly excluded Grealish from the squad that competed in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, indicating that his time under Guardiola is likely up. The goal was to allow him to focus on securing a move elsewhere—but that plan has hit a major roadblock.
Transfer Fee and Wages a Major Obstacle
City is reportedly still demanding a hefty fee, whether it be for a permanent deal or a season-long loan. But in today’s cautious transfer market, where clubs are increasingly calculating in their spending, Grealish’s high salary and transfer valuation have become significant stumbling blocks.
According to reports from GiveMeSport, no club has come forward with a formal offer close to City’s valuation. Even interest from Premier League rivals and Serie A clubs has remained just that—interest, without action. For a player once seen as the future of English football, the silence is deafening.
Pep Guardiola Admits Squad Needs Trimming
In an honest admission during the Club World Cup campaign, Pep Guardiola hinted at upcoming squad changes. Speaking to reporters, he acknowledged that his team has become bloated with too many players and that difficult conversations with certain individuals were on the horizon.
“We have a big squad,” Guardiola told The Sun. “We’ll see what happens. It’s difficult. I don’t know what the club will do. We will talk with the players.”
His comments strongly suggest that a summer clear-out is inevitable, and Grealish could be among those facing the exit door. Guardiola didn’t hide his frustration either, stating:
“The squad is very good, but I’m disappointed with several players. We want to give everyone chances, but that’s just not possible.”
This indirect criticism seems to be directed at players who haven’t delivered consistently—perhaps a subtle jab at Grealish, whose performances have come under scrutiny in the past two seasons.
What’s Next for Grealish?
With pre-season approaching, the clock is ticking for Grealish to find a new home. Yet, with no firm offers on the table, he finds himself in a rare and awkward position for a player of his stature—unwanted by his current club and overlooked by potential suitors.
Still only 29, Grealish has plenty to offer. He could thrive again in the right system, with the right manager, and the right environment. But to do that, he may need to accept a reduced wage or a less glamorous destination than he once imagined.
Whether this marks a turning point or a steep decline in his career remains to be seen. But one thing is clear—the journey from England’s most expensive player to a transfer conundrum is a sharp and sobering one.
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