Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola will decide Jack Grealish’s future at the end of the season. With limited playing time this year, Grealish’s role at the club is uncertain. Talks are planned once the campaign finishes to clarify his situation.
From Star of the Treble to Bench Warmer
Jack Grealish, once one of Manchester City’s biggest stars, now faces uncertainty about his future at the club. After playing a key role in City’s famous treble-winning season in 2023, the English midfielder has found himself out of the starting lineup this year.
The 29-year-old has only started seven Premier League games this season. Most recently, he wasn’t even used as a substitute when City lost 1-0 to Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final on May 17. That shocking benching has led to strong rumours that Grealish could leave Manchester City in the summer transfer window.
Pep Guardiola Confirms Post-Season Talks
Speaking on May 19, manager Pep Guardiola admitted that no final decision has been made yet. However, discussions about Grealish’s future will take place once the season ends.
“We haven’t spoken yet,” said Guardiola. “People might not believe me, but these decisions are made by the club, by the agents, and by our sporting directors — Txiki Begiristain and Hugo Viana. What happens, will happen.”
Pep Guardiola added that Grealish will need to come back strong next season to earn playing time, if he remains at the club.
Grealish Unhappy with Lack of Playing Time
It’s no surprise that Grealish isn’t happy. Guardiola openly said that no player enjoys being left out, especially when the team keeps winning. “It’s not just Jack. Every player wants to play. No one is happy sitting on the bench,” he explained.
Grealish still has two years left on his contract at City, but his future now depends on post-season discussions between the club, his representatives, and Guardiola’s team.
Farewell to Kevin De Bruyne
While Pep Guardiola’s future is still up in the air, one player who is definitely leaving is Kevin De Bruyne. The 33-year-old Belgian midfielder, who has been a City legend for the past decade, is expected to play his last home game on May 20 against Bournemouth.
De Bruyne’s contract ends in June, and he will leave City after 10 incredible years, during which he won 16 major trophies.
Despite De Bruyne’s belief that he can still compete in the Premier League, Guardiola believes the time has come for change. Injuries and a drop in form have affected his performances over the last two seasons.
Guardiola Praises De Bruyne but Plans for Future
“It’s really difficult to replace a player like Kevin,” said Guardiola. “But we have to move forward. The season we had proves we’re still strong, but we can’t deny his importance.”
De Bruyne leaves behind a massive legacy. He will be remembered as one of City’s greatest-ever players, but as Guardiola said, the club must keep evolving to stay on top.
Conclusion: A Summer of Change Ahead
As the season draws to a close, Manchester City could be heading into a summer of major changes. With Kevin De Bruyne leaving and Jack Grealish’s future uncertain, Pep Guardiola has big decisions to make. The next few weeks will be crucial for reshaping City’s squad for another title challenge.
