Jack Grealish’s future at Manchester City is in serious doubt after being left out of Pep Guardiola’s squad for the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, which kicks off on June 14.
Despite being allowed to name 35 players, City submitted a list of just 27—and Grealish, along with former captain Kyle Walker, was notably missing. All four of City’s recent signings—Rayan Ait-Nouri, Rayan Cherki, Tijjani Reijnders, and Marcus Bettinelli—were included in the squad. Ballon d’Or winner Rodri was also selected after recently returning from a long-term knee injury.
Grealish, still the club’s record signing at £100 million following his move from Aston Villa in 2021, has seen his role diminish in recent seasons. He started just seven Premier League matches in the 2024/25 campaign and was unused during City’s 1-0 defeat to Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final.
The 29-year-old has two years left on his contract, but his £300,000-per-week wages could make it difficult for potential buyers to come forward.
Guardiola had previously warned he might leave if the squad wasn’t trimmed ahead of the new season. Grealish is among several players expected to depart, with Walker also set to leave after a loan spell at AC Milan. The Italian side, however, has not exercised their option to sign him permanently.
City open their Club World Cup group stage against Wydad Casablanca in Philadelphia, followed by matches against Al Ain and Juventus.
