Jack Grealish and Declan Rice react to James Maddison ‘thankyou’ amid Tottenham exit links
Manchester City star Jack Grealish has reacted to James Maddison’s ‘thank you’ message as the forward may be set to join his England team mate at Tottenham.
Grealish has fallen out of favour at City over the past season and has said he does not expect to stay at the club this summer.
Pep Guardiola signed the 29-year-old for £100m in 2021, but handed the former Aston Villa player just seven Premier League starts last season.
Grealish was also not picked for City’s Club World Cup squad where they made the last 16 before being knocked out by Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal.
England duo like Maddison post
Maddison took to Instagram (7 July) to say ‘thank you’ to Wimbledon after a day out enjoying a day of tennis action, calling it an ‘incredible day’.
The 28-year-old was pictured on centre court, which was liked by his England team mates Grealish and Rice.
Whilst Grealish is linked with a move to Spurs, Maddison could leave the North London club this summer if new manager Thomas Frank can’t guarantee the midfielder regular playing time as he actively looks for attacking reinforcements.
Grealish requires City exit
Football Insider Verdict
The past season has been a tough one for Grealish, who seems to have no place in Guardiola’s future plans.
Grealish is comfortable playing out wide or in the number 10 position, which makes him a useful asset, but Guardiola prioritised other options last season.
With no place in the Club World Cup squad, there looks to be no way back into the team for Grealish despite the departure of Kevin De Bruyne freeing up a forward slot.
| Appearances | 157 |
| Goals | 17 |
| Assists | 23 |
Spurs have been told they could snatch the 29-year-old for around £40m.
Whilst at City, last season aside, Grealish has been a key player for Guardiola and has won three Premier League titles and a Champions League.
His ball carrying ability, close control and creative flair would be beneficial to Frank who faces decisions over a number of key players’ futures including captain Son Heung-min and Richarlison.
Frank is currently targeting Mohammed Kudus from West Ham and Crystal Palace ace Eberechi Eze, but Grealish should also be given serious consideration despite his older age and lack of recent game time.