Enzo Maresca, Manchester City coach, spoke on Friday about the situation of JackGrealish, who has once again generated controversy after his loan to Everton. The English striker, who is in the City squad after having played the preseason with the club and participating in 45 minutes of the Community Shield against Arsenal, was excluded by Everton from the League Cup round of 16 match against Newcastle, after skipping training on Monday without authorization.
Maresca described Grealish as “a good boy, a good guy, with a big heart,” and added that he continues to believe in him. The comment comes at a time when Everton, under the direction of David Moyes, lost 3-1 against Newcastle and the player does not appear in the starting team. The London club's decision to keep him out of the game reflects the board's frustration with the player's lack of discipline.
Meanwhile, Manchester City continues to lead the Premier League with a goal difference that places them at the top of the table. The team is tied on points with Brighton, which occupies third place, and next game they face the “Seagulls”. Maresca pointed out that “it is too early” to determine whether Brighton will continue in the fight for a place in the 2027-28 Champions League, although City is affected by the absence of Antoine Semenyo, who is out.
Grealish's loan to Everton has become a topic of debate not only because of his performance on the field, but also because of his behavior off it. The City manager, who replaced Pep Guardiola, has shown an attitude of patience and trust in the player, despite recent controversies. The striker's situation will continue to be under scrutiny as Everton and City try to balance their squads and objectives for the season.