The dawn of the Enzo Maresca era at the Etihad was always going to start with a calculated reassessment of the Man City squad Pep Guardiola left behind. For Jack Grealish, the latest soundbites suggest that a clean break remains the most likely outcome this summer.
Despite recent face-to-face discussions between the new manager and the 30-year-old winger regarding his tactical fit, the club hierarchy’s stance has not wavered. According to reports from Football Insider, Manchester City remain entirely open to selling Grealish, who is now firmly viewed as surplus to requirements despite the initial optimism surrounding the managerial change.
It is a harsh reality for a player who cost a British-record £100 million five years ago. While Maresca’s arrival briefly ignited hope among sections of the fanbase that the creative midfielder might get a clean slate, the financial and structural reality of rebuilding the post-Pep squad appears to have taken precedence.
Everton, where Grealish spent last season on loan, remain the clear frontrunners for his signature. Despite a foot injury curtailing his time on Merseyside, his performances under David Moyes reminded onlookers of his undoubted quality, prompting the Toffees to pursue a permanent deal.
With Grealish entering the final two years of his contract, City seem pragmatic. Rather than attempting to force a square peg into a round hole under Maresca, the champions look prepared to take a hit on their initial investment to trim the wage bill and reshape the flanks.
The romantic notion (for some) of a Grealish renaissance under the new boss is fading fast; a permanent departure is now beckoning.
