What next for Jack the lad as Maresca weighs up his options?

After a promising loan spell at Everton last season was cut short by a fractured foot, the England international has missed out on Manchester City’s pre-season tour of Asia.

The official reason for his absence in Enzo Maresca’s squad is that he is continuing to recover after being sidelined since January.

But Grealish, who was signed by City for £100million in August 2021 and has two years left on his contract, faces an uncertain future at the Etihad once again.

Although Maresca has spoken warmly of him, the former Aston Villa star may not get the chance to impress Pep Guardiola’s successor in competitive action.

"At the moment, he is here,” said the Italian at his first press conference as City boss last week. “He is a Manchester City player.

“I always said the same. In any club I join, I like to know if there are players that belong to the club.

"It's my duty to try to coach them. Jack is here. I have a good relationship with Jack since I left [in the summer of 2023].

“Also, we keep in touch, and the reason why is because he has a big heart and he is a very good guy. So this is the reason why and then we see what happens."

Having worked with him during his time as Guardiola’s assistant, Maresca is well aware of what Grealish brings to the table.

But when you consider his predecessor saw him as surplus to requirements, it makes you wonder whether the new man in the hotseat will view things any differently.

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Grealish, who turns 31 in September, quickly won over the Everton faithful last term and certainly has a fan in the shape of Toffees boss David Moyes.

He scored two goals and contributed six assists in 22 appearances under Moyes, which explains why the Scot is rumoured to be interested in taking him back to Merseyside.

Grealish is said to be keen to remain in the Premier League but his reported wages of £300,000 a week could prove a sticking point for the Toffees and any other English clubs circling.

City will want a permanent deal should Maresca decide to move him on, which could open the door for Al Hilal to swoop.

The Saudi Pro League side have the financial clout to satisfy all parties but any move would hinge on whether Grealish is willing to move abroad.

For now, his focus is on returning to full fitness and being ready for the start of the season. Whether he begins it with City, however, remains to be seen.

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