Pep Guardiola and Jack Grealish recently shared a brief but notably positive exchange during an Oasis concert at Heaton Park — a meeting that could prove pivotal in determining the winger’s future at Manchester City.
Grealish, who has faced intense scrutiny over the summer, has seen his role at the Etihad come under question. Following a season marred by injuries and inconsistent form, the 29-year-old found himself slipping down the pecking order.
His reduced playing time and exclusion from City’s FIFA Club World Cup squad only intensified speculation about a possible departure, with several clubs — including Tottenham, West Ham, and Everton — reportedly expressing interest. Furthermore, Grealish reportedly rejected a move to a major Turkish club, while an offer from Napoli remains active.
Manchester City are understood to be open to allowing Grealish to leave on loan if the right opportunity arises. However, they are not actively pushing him out.
The arrivals of fresh talent like Rayan Cherki and the rise of younger stars such as Oscar Bobb have increased the competition for places in Pep Guardiola’s squad, further clouding Grealish’s position moving forward.
According to The Observer’s Rory Smith, Grealish and Guardiola’s encounter took place in the VIP section of the concert and, though brief, the conversation was described as warm and amicable.
This seemingly simple interaction might now be causing Grealish to reconsider his future and seriously think about staying and fighting for his place at City.
The significance of this moment lies not just in the timing, but in Guardiola’s reputation for giving players second chances. Known for his ability to reintegrate and revitalize underperforming stars — if they show the necessary desire and tactical discipline — Guardiola may be willing to extend that same patience to Grealish.
Grealish has already returned to pre-season training and is expected to play in Manchester City’s upcoming friendly against Palermo on August 9. His participation in these early preparations signals that he may be planning to stay and prove himself, rather than seeking an exit.
However, the road ahead won’t be easy. He’ll need to compete with younger, in-form players and possibly redefine his role within the squad. Critics, including former City manager Stuart Pearce, have pointed to a decline in his attacking threat and suggested he has lost his former sharpness.
Still, with the right mindset and a strong showing in pre-season, Grealish could yet change the narrative. One small moment with his manager at a concert might just be the turning point in what once looked like a closed chapter at Manchester City.
