Manchester City forward Jack Grealish has addressed his absence from the club's pre-season tour of Asia, insisting he is injured and has not been "left out".
The 30-year-old returned to the Etihad Stadium this summer after a loan spell at Everton, where a foot injury limited his appearances. He is now the subject of reported interest from both La Liga side Atletico Madrid and Saudi Pro League outfit Al Hilal.
Grealish hits back at speculation
Writing on social media, Grealish said: "Just to let you know I'm still recovering from an injury so I'm not training yet. Haven't been 'left out' so stop talking poo poo thanks."
New City boss Enzo Maresca, who worked with Grealish as assistant to Pep Guardiola during the club's treble-winning 2022/23 campaign, has refused to rule out keeping the winger. He said: "At the moment, he's here. He's a Man City player. I always said the same.
"In any club I join, I like to know if there are players that belong to the club. It's my duty to try to coach them.
"Jack is here. I have a good relation with Jack since I left. Also, we keep in touch, and the reason why is because he has a big heart and he's a very good guy. So this is the reason why. And then we see what happens."
Atletico and Al Hilal keen
According to The Sun, Atletico Madrid are exploring a possible deal for the former £100million man, with the club's hierarchy said to admire his work rate in and out of possession. Grealish is viewed as a strong fit for Diego Simeone's tactical system.
Al Hilal have also been linked. The Middle Eastern club have already signed Crysencio Summerville from West Ham and are reportedly looking to add Grealish to their attacking options.
City career in numbers
Since his big-money move from boyhood club Aston Villa, Grealish has made 157 appearances for City in all competitions, scoring 17 goals. He has helped the club win three Premier League titles and the Champions League.
