Guardiola Breaks Silence on Grealish's Shocking Club World Cup Omission and Exit Speculation
Pep Guardiola has dismissed claims that Jack Grealish's exclusion from Manchester City's FIFA Club World Cup roster is related to any disciplinary issues or lack of commitment from the player.
Grealish has only made seven Premier League starts during the 2024–25 campaign—with just one appearance in the latter half of the season—after dramatically falling down the pecking order. His omission was the most notable when City announced their 27-man squad for the Club World Cup.
However, Guardiola maintains that Grealish bears no responsibility for his situation. Rather, other players—such as Jérémy Doku and Savinho—have earned more opportunities on the field. The chances of securing playing time in the United States ahead of Doku, Savinho, Phil Foden and Omar Marmoush were consequently minimal. Additionally, players like Matheus Nunes and Nico O'Reilly provide more tactical flexibility.
"The sole reason [Grealish] hasn't received playing time was my decision, not due to any misconduct or similar issues," Guardiola told the media.
"He remains an exceptional player, but competition among teammates is inevitable, and last season Doku delivered outstanding performances in numerous matches while Savinho successfully adapted during his debut campaign."
Grealish is expected to depart City during the upcoming summer transfer window, four years after the club activated the £100 million ($137.2 million) buyout clause in his Aston Villa deal to establish what was then a British transfer milestone.
"I wish nothing but the best for Jack, his partner, his children, and his entire family," Guardiola stated. "I'm uncertain about what lies ahead at this moment. I have complete confidence in Jack's abilities. His talent has never been questioned, and our treble-winning season wouldn't have been achievable [without his contributions]."
Various clubs have been associated with Grealish, including Everton, Tottenham Hotspur and his former club Villa from the Premier League, as well as Bayern Munich and Napoli from abroad. Bayern and Napoli have found success by acquiring talent from the English market in recent years, with Harry Kane and Eric Dier claiming trophies at Bayern, while Scott McTominay and Billy Gilmour are part of Napoli's title-contending squad.