Manchester City manager Josep Guardiola has surprisingly hinted that Jack Grealish could have a way to play at the Etihad Stadium again.
The England international has been on loan at Everton this season after falling under the radar at Man City in recent years and performing somewhat indifferently for the club.
Grealish was fun to watch during his time at Aston Villa, but it’s safe to say we never saw his best playing under Josep Guardiola.
The loan move to Everton appears to have been a very good outcome for Grealish, with manager Guardiola speaking about the 30-year-old’s form in a press conference on Friday.
Somewhat surprisingly, Guardiola hinted that perhaps City might want Grealish back, although no one would have probably considered that possibility at all when he left in the summer.
Josep Guardiola appears to be offering Jack Grealish a return to Manchester City
When asked about Grealish’s form during his time at Everton, Guardiola revealed how pleased he was with the player’s performances and suggested it was possible that a return could be agreed.
“He has a contract with us for one more year, two more years. The most important thing for him is that he is back and playing,” Guardiola told reporters.
“His influence in every game for Everton is there… Perhaps after what happened, Manchester City want him back. I don’t know, there’s still a lot to happen. It involves the club, the agent and of course the manager, but we’ll see.”
Greek’s stats at Everton so far
| game | the goal | assist |
| 7 | 1 | 4 |
“It’s important that he plays again and gets a lot of minutes. What happened to this player… He has to feel perfect, he has to feel alive before the game, he has to feel the butterflies, and this kind of passion to play football that every player needs.
“Honestly, I’m really happy he’s back to his best.”
Should Jack Grealish return to City?
Grealish is one of the best talents of his time, but he is a bit of a maverick in terms of individual qualities, meaning he is a poor fit for Guardiola’s system.
The Spanish tactician is known for his preference for possession and game control, which leaves little room for a free spirit like Grealish to come on and take risks.
Even if the England international is currently performing again, this is probably a sign that he needs to leave City permanently rather than considering a return.
Everton fans will no doubt be delighted with Grealish’s signing as manager David Moyes has done a fantastic job helping him rediscover his best form.