Former Aston Villa captain Jack Grealish could be set for a dramatic return to Villa Park as uncertainty surrounds his position at Manchester City.
The 30-year-old attacking player finds his future in limbo at the Etihad Stadium despite being allocated a squad number by Enzo Maresca’s side for their Premier League season opener against Bournemouth this Sunday at 2pm. The versatile forward experienced something of a revival during a temporary spell at Everton last season after falling out of favour at Manchester City.
Grealish contributed two goals and six assists for David Moyes’ side during that loan spell. Those performances have sparked speculation about a potential homecoming to the club where he previously captained the team.
The wide player arrived at City in August 2021 for a British-record transfer fee of £100million. However, former Villa favourite Stan Collymore has expressed reservations about a possible move to Unai Emery’s side.
Speaking to 10bet, he stated his view that Grealish would not suit Villa’s current needs. While acknowledging his admiration for the player, he explained that Villa urgently require players with direct speed on the wings.
The pundit pointed to recent departures and struggles: Evann Guessand departed for Crystal Palace, Donyell Malen moved to Roma after receiving limited opportunities, and Leon Bailey’s impact has decreased. He noted that Grealish’s playing style at Manchester City has developed differently, with the player typically receiving possession in wide areas, holding onto the ball, and passing it back to central midfielders.
Collymore argued that Villa require direct wingers capable of beating opponents on the outside and making attacking runs to the goal line.
Recruiting Grealish might also prove unnecessary following Villa’s acquisition of winger Alejandro Garnacho from Chelsea.
Regarding Villa’s signing of the former Manchester United player, Collymore observed that Garnacho possesses explosive speed and has a point to prove under Emery. He mentioned having observed Garnacho cause problems for Villa’s right side during a match at Stamford Bridge last season, repeatedly beating Matty Cash, moving inside, and delivering low crosses into the penalty area.
He also noted that Emery maintains complete control over his squad management.
Everton chief executive officer Angus Kinnear has confirmed the Toffees have maintained communication with Grealish.
In an exclusive conversation with BBC Radio Merseyside, Kinnear explained that Grealish is a player they have kept in touch with, noting that it was publicly known he chose to complete his rehabilitation at the club during the latter part of last season when he was not required to do so. Kinnear described Grealish as someone who has developed affection for Everton’s colours but emphasised that he remains a Manchester City player and that this must be respected. He stressed that the most significant aspect is Grealish’s recovery, noting he sustained a severe injury and has worked diligently to return to full fitness.