Grealish sets the record straight after being linked with a move away from City
Jack Grealish has fired back at reports suggesting he was omitted from Manchester City's pre-season tour squad, making it clear he is still recovering from a foot injury. The winger, who returned to the Blues at the end of June after a season-long loan at Everton, took to social media to address the rumours directly.
In response to an ESPN UK Instagram post, Grealish wrote: 'Just to let you know, I'm still recovering from an injury so I'm not training yet. Haven't been ''left out.''
Grealish's final appearance for Everton came against Aston Villa on 18 January, before a serious foot injury ended his campaign prematurely. He remained at Goodison Park during rehabilitation and has now made a full recovery, setting him up for assessment by new City boss Enzo Maresca.
The 29-year-old registered two goals and six assists in 20 league games for the Toffees during the first half of last season. Everton manager David Moyes said in May: 'Obviously we like Jack a lot – but we've not got an answer yet. We've looked after Jack since his injury and his injury is coming on. Normally a player would go back to their parent club and be looked after from there, but we'll continue doing our best for Jack.'
City inserted a £50million option-to-buy clause in Grealish's loan deal, but Everton decided against triggering it as they are only willing to pay a hugely reduced fee. Despite that, Grealish is believed to be prioritising a return to Merseyside. Sources have told Football Insider that Everton will accelerate a move for him if Iliman Ndiaye leaves for Al Hilal soon.
For now, Grealish remains a City player, recovering and waiting for his chance to impress Maresca.