Pep Guardiola has acknowledged that Jack Grealish may depart Manchester City following the winger’s exclusion from the 2-0 victory over Fulham, a win that confirmed their spot in the Champions League on Sunday.
Ilkay Gundogan’s remarkable overhead kick, along with Erling Haaland’s penalty in the second half, secured third place in the Premier League for City on the final day of the season.
However, the club’s record signing, Grealish, was absent from the trip to Craven Cottage for a match that Guardiola had described as the most crucial of City’s campaign.
The England international’s lack of involvement has reignited discussions about his future, following a season where he spent a considerable amount of time on the bench.
Guardiola acknowledged that it was uncertain whether Grealish would remain at City when the new season begins.
“It was selection,” Guardiola explained. “He’s an incredible player who needs to play every three days, but that hasn’t happened this season or the last.”
“He must play, whether it’s with us or elsewhere. That’s a matter for Jack, his agent, and the club.”
“If he stays, that will be fine, and he has fought hard since day one to contribute, but not today.”
At 29, Grealish made his move from Aston Villa in 2021 for £100 million and was pivotal in helping City achieve a historic treble, winning the Premier League, Champions League, and FA Cup just two years later.
However, this season he started only seven league matches and remained an unused substitute during City’s FA Cup final loss to Crystal Palace.
‘It’s not personal’
When asked if he was dissatisfied with Grealish, Guardiola responded sharply: “Who said I’m not happy with Jack? Rico (Lewis) wasn’t selected, and (James) McAtee was exceptional against Aston Villa and Wolves. Why not ask about McAtee?”
“It’s not personal. I have 24 players to choose from and had to leave out six for the last game and five today due to (Mateo) Kovacic’s red card.”
“I’m the one who advocated for Jack to come here and who fought for him to remain with us this season and the next.”
“I’m the one who said: ‘I want Jack Grealish’. What happens in the future is a job for (football directors) Txiki (Begiristain), Hugo (Viana), and the agents.”
City began the season aiming for a fifth consecutive title, but they ended up without a trophy for the first time in eight years.
Despite this, Guardiola expressed satisfaction in wrapping up a challenging season by securing a valuable Champions League spot.
“It’s a relief, as today’s qualification for the Champions League feels like winning the title,” he remarked.
“When we couldn’t win the Premier League, the players could have easily given up, which has occurred in this country many times—when the Premier League winner hasn’t qualified for the Champions League.
“We never gave up. People may not believe it, but it’s truly a happy day for us.”
Guardiola promised that City will return stronger next season, declaring: “We will learn our lessons, and this won’t happen again. We will be better.”
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