Grealish out of Club World Cup: Haaland expresses longing on social media

Manchester City arrived in the United States for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, but Jack Grealish’s absence, due to a technical decision by Pep Guardiola, cast a shadow over the trip. Erling Haaland expressed his feelings on Snapchat, posting a photo of an empty airplane seat with the caption, “Jack Grealish, where are you?”. The English attacker, signed in 2021 for £100 million, has lost his place in the squad. City kicks off the tournament against Wydad Casablanca on Wednesday (18) at 1 p.m. Brasília time. Grealish’s exclusion has sparked talks about his future, while Haaland shows the team still values him off the pitch.

The decision to leave Grealish out stirred debate. Throughout the season, he struggled to secure a starting spot, being a substitute in half of his games. Guardiola’s choice has fueled discussions among fans and pundits, especially after City’s win over Fulham in the latest Premier League round.

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• Reason for exclusion: Guardiola emphasized Grealish’s need for regular game time, which he hasn’t had recently.
• Season stats: Grealish scored three goals and provided five assists in 32 matches.
• Uncertain future: Reports suggest a potential transfer in the European summer window.

The expanded Club World Cup offers City a chance to claim a historic title. Their group includes Al-Ain, Juventus, and Wydad Casablanca, setting the stage for tough matches.

Why Grealish was left out

Pep Guardiola’s decision to exclude Jack Grealish stems from tactical and performance considerations. Signed for roughly £100 million (about R$724 million at the time), Grealish was a record-breaking transfer for City in 2021. However, his output has dipped. In the 2024/25 season, he played 32 games but started only 16, a sharp decline from the prior season when he was a starter in 26 of 36 matches.

Guardiola stressed the need for Grealish to play consistently, something City couldn’t guarantee. After the Fulham game, the manager noted that Grealish’s situation would depend on discussions with his agent and the club. The signing of Rayan Cherki from Lyon has added competition in the attacking line, likely influencing the decision.

The British press, including The Telegraph, reports that City is open to negotiating Grealish’s transfer in the summer window. Clubs like Aston Villa, where he previously starred, and other Premier League sides are keeping tabs on him.

Grealish’s performance at City

Jack Grealish joined Manchester City as a marquee signing, but his numbers reflect a downward trend. In 2022/23, he played a key role in securing the Premier League and Champions League titles. Injuries and stiff competition have since limited his impact.

• 2024/25 season: 3 goals, 5 assists in 32 games.
• 2023/24 season: 4 goals, 7 assists in 36 games.
• Comparison: In his debut 2021/22 season, he scored 5 goals and had 7 assists in 39 games.

The rise of players like Phil Foden and Julian Álvarez, combined with Cherki’s arrival, has crowded the attacking positions. Still, Grealish remains popular among teammates, as Haaland’s gesture shows.

Erling Haaland 💔 Jack Grealish pic.twitter.com/KZXQ1VHenX

— City Report (@cityreport_) June 12, 2025

Haaland’s emotional message

Erling Haaland’s Snapchat post stood out for its simplicity and warmth. The empty seat image, paired with a brief caption, highlighted the team’s camaraderie amid the high-stakes Club World Cup. Haaland, City’s top scorer and a squad leader, has previously praised Grealish’s role in the locker room.

The post underscores their friendship. Grealish is known for his charisma and ability to bond the team, a quality missed during the trip. Fans flooded social media with reactions, many urging City to keep the Englishman.

City’s Club World Cup preparations

Manchester City landed in the U.S. with a star-studded squad, though Grealish’s absence added a bittersweet note. The club unveiled a special kit for the tournament, featuring details honoring the competition. Their opener against Wydad Casablanca marks the start of a challenging group stage.

Guardiola is banking on an attacking lineup led by Haaland, with Kevin De Bruyne back from injury and Rodri anchoring the midfield. City, currently atop the Premier League, aims to carry their domestic form into the global stage.

Squad changes at City

The addition of Rayan Cherki is a major talking point. The 21-year-old Frenchman, signed from Lyon for €40 million, has already shown promise. His versatility increases Guardiola’s options but adds pressure on players like Grealish.

City is also eyeing further reinforcements. Grealish’s potential exit could free up funds, with names like Sporting’s Pedro Gonçalves linked to the club.

The 2025 Club World Cup

This year’s tournament debuts an expanded 32-team format, running from June to July across U.S. venues. City faces a tough group with Al-Ain, Juventus, and Wydad Casablanca. The competition is a milestone in the soccer calendar.

• Top contenders: City, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, and Flamengo are among the favorites.
• Format: Group stage with the top two teams advancing to knockouts.
• Prize money: The winner could earn up to €50 million.

The tournament features diverse players and iconic venues like Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium, adding to its global appeal.

Fan and media reactions

Grealish’s omission shocked many fans and analysts. Social media saw criticism of Guardiola, with some arguing Grealish deserved a spot. Others backed the decision, citing the need for squad renewal.

Outlets like The Guardian noted that Guardiola’s choice aligns with his focus on peak performers. The debate has also spotlighted the £100 million investment in Grealish, which some feel hasn’t fully paid off.

What’s next for Grealish

At 29, Grealish still has plenty to offer. Clubs like Tottenham, Newcastle, and even Paris Saint-Germain have shown past interest. A return to Aston Villa, where he’s a fan favorite, remains a possibility. The summer transfer window, opening in July, will be pivotal.

For now, Grealish trains with City’s reserves, staying match-ready. His last appearance was a brief cameo in the Fulham win.

City’s strength without Grealish

Despite Grealish’s absence, City remains a powerhouse. Winners of the last two Premier League titles, they’re chasing their first Club World Cup trophy. Haaland, with 15 goals this season, leads the attack, backed by a solid defense marshaled by Rúben Dias.

The club’s world-class training facilities and growing fanbase bolster their global presence. The Club World Cup is a chance to cement their status as a soccer giant.