Jack Grealish’s: What Is His Next Club After Manchester City?

It’s hard to believe that just three years ago, Jack Grealish was England’s £100 million man. He was a marquee signing meant to bring flair and edge to Manchester City’s already star-studded squad. But fast forward to May 2025, and Grealish’s story at the Etihad feels like one that’s coming to an unceremonious end.

Not only was he benched for the FA Cup final, he wasn’t even named in the squad, a clear sign from Pep Guardiola that Grealish is no longer central to City’s plans. The writing’s been on the wall for a while, but now, it’s in bold.

The Fall From Grace

Grealish’s time at City started with so much promise. While his debut season had its share of growing pains, he became an essential part of the team that lifted the treble in 2022–23. But since then, the spark has faded.

This season has been his quietest yet. He has 7 Premier League starts and only 715 minutes played. Injuries and form have plagued him, but perhaps even more telling is the shift in Guardiola’s trust. As pundit Alan Shearer put it bluntly on talkSPORT, “His time is up at Man City, he has to leave.” Micah Richards, who knows Grealish well, didn’t disagree: “I feel like Jack’s played within himself. We haven’t seen the real Jack Grealish.”

Who’s in the Running?

1. Premier League Teams

Surprisingly, the Spurs have jumped ahead in the race for Grealish. He’d undoubtedly be free to express himself in a system built around dynamic, front-foot football. With the Europa League final looming, they can qualify for the Champions League and start things in the right direction with a new manager next season. Grealish would not care who the new manager is after Ange Postecoglou leaves, or whatever the circumstances. The 29-year-old would just want to play football, and Tottenham might be the best place to do it. 

A romantic return to Villa Park can’t be ruled out. Unai Emery’s side is on the up, and a reunion with the club where he became a star might be the feel-good move Grealish needs. The fans still adore him, and if they qualify, the idea of leading Aston Villa in the Champions League has more than a little poetic charm.

Then there’s Newcastle, a club with serious ambition and Champions League aspirations. Grealish is reportedly open to the move, with sources close to him believing Eddie Howe’s man-management style could help him rediscover his best. It’s a project offering minutes, responsibility, potentially Champions League football, and the spotlight he seems to thrive in.

Never shy in the transfer market, Chelsea are said to be weighing up a move for Grealish too. With their need for creativity on the flanks, a rejuvenated Jack could spark their disjointed attack. But would he find the stability he’s craving in the chaos of Stamford Bridge?

2. Outside the Premier League

An overseas move may feel out of left field, but it’s not off the table. Napoli, under Antonio Conte, are reportedly keen on bringing him to Serie A. Grealish is said to be intrigued by the idea of living abroad and sees it as a chance to reboot mentally and physically. Maybe even play with a little more freedom outside the Premier League microscope.

Both Milan giants are monitoring the situation. AC Milan could be looking for a new creative force if Rafael Leão moves on, while Inter Milan is also keeping tabs. Italy might be the place to rediscover his groove, slower tempo, more space, and less pressure from tabloid back pages.

Final Thoughts

Grealish’s next move is essential because it’s about more than club football. The World Cup 2026  is here next year, and the Euro 2028 is on the horizon. With England’s depth of talent in attacking midfield, he can’t afford another season on the fringes.

Grealish needs minutes, belief, and a manager willing to give him the keys to the attack wherever he ends up. The swagger, the confidence, the risk-taking, all the things that made him one of England’s most beloved players, need to return. Maybe the Manchester City chapter didn’t unfold the way many expected, but the book isn’t closed. Not yet.