Jack Grealish is due to return to Manchester City following his loan spell at Everton and, despite previously being out in the cold, Enzo Maresca could offer him a route back into the team
Jack Grealish has rediscovered his best form whilst on loan at Everton
Jack Grealish has rediscovered his best form whilst on loan at Everton(Image: Getty Images)
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Incoming Manchester City boss Enzo Maresca wants to hand a lifeline to outcast Jack Grealish. Maresca is expected to replace the outgoing Pep Guardiola at the Etihad this summer.
And the Italian is planning to hold talks with Grealish about the chances of him reviving his City career. Grealish spent this season on-loan with Everton after finding himself frozen out at the Etihad.
The England midfielder fell out with Guardiola towards the end of last season, and was axed from his squad for the Club World Cup in the United States. Grealish decided he wanted a fresh challenge and joined Everton, to rediscover some of his best form.
But his campaign was cut short in January when he suffered a stress fracture of his foot, which ruled him out of this summer's World Cup.
The 30-year-old had decided he had no long-term future at City while Guardiola remained in charge - and had decided he wanted to make his move to Everton permanent.
But Guardiola's exit following a decade as manager could lead to a shock U-turn from Grealish. It's understood that if Maresca replaces Guardiola, the Italian believes Grealish can be part of the team's future again under him. Grealish, who cost City a British record £100m in 2021, will be entering the final 12 months of his current deal next month.
Enzo Maresca will have several major decisions to make if and when he arrives at Man City
Enzo Maresca will have several major decisions to make if and when he arrives at Man City(Image: Chelsea FC via Getty Images)
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Everton are keen to sign him, but Maresca can still have a huge say in Grealish's future. And 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.
Grealish has remained close friends with most of the City squad, and has a close relationship with Erling Haaland. He previously started for City in the Champions League final three years ago when they claimed the treble.
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