The former darling of the Holte End, who turned 30 on Wednesday, will play against his boyhood club this weekend for just the fifth time since leaving for Manchester City for a then British transfer record £100million fee in 2021.
Grealish is yet to score or register an assist against Villa since his departure and started only four times in four seasons for City against them, failing to get off the bench in three other encounters and missing another entirely through suspension.
But he has perhaps never faced his ex-employees in better spirits after an excellent start to life with the Toffees, whom he joined on a season-long loan last month.
Grealish has set-up four goals in his first two starts, helping David Moyes’ side secure wins over Brighton and Wolves.
After struggling to make any impact whatsoever last season with City, he immediately appears rejuvenated, with many observers already predicting his signing will prove to be the best of the summer.
Grealish’s history with Villa meant a reunion was touted the moment it became clear City were prepared to let him leave, yet it is not thought a move was ever seriously considered by Unai Emery.
Even had Villa shown interest, it is not clear Grealish would have reciprocated. The passage of time has not eased the disappointment felt by some supporters at his exit and the frosty reception he received on his most recent outing at Villa Park, a 2-1 defeat for City last December, is thought to have upset both the player and his family.
Though the desire to get his career back on track and earn an England recall ensures Grealish has no shortage of motivation this season, it would be a surprise if Villa’s visit did not provide a little added incentive.