Incoming Manchester City boss Enzo Maresca is prepared to hand a lifeline to outcast Jack Grealish, who has rediscovered his best form while on loan at Everton. Maresca is expected to replace outgoing manager Pep Guardiola at the Etihad this summer and is planning to hold talks with the England midfielder about reviving his City career.
Grealish's Fallout with Guardiola
Grealish spent this season on loan with Everton after falling out with Guardiola towards the end of last season. He was axed from the squad for the Club World Cup in the United States and decided he wanted a fresh challenge. However, his campaign was cut short in January due to a stress fracture of his foot, which also ruled him out of this summer's World Cup.
Potential U-Turn
The 30-year-old had concluded he had no long-term future at City while Guardiola remained in charge and was keen to make his move to Everton permanent. But Guardiola's exit after a decade as manager could lead to a shock U-turn. It is understood that Maresca believes Grealish can be part of the team's future again. Grealish, who cost City a British record £100 million in 2021, will enter the final 12 months of his current deal next month.
Everton are keen to sign him permanently, but Maresca can still have a huge say in his future. Unless told otherwise, Grealish will be expected to return to pre-season training at the Etihad in July, ahead of the club's summer tour of the Far East. He has remained close friends with most of the City squad, particularly Erling Haaland, and previously started in the Champions League final three years ago when City claimed the treble.
