Jack Grealish has agreed to separate himself from the rest of the team and train individually in a hammer blow to the England star, who has been out of favour at Manchester City.
The 29-year-old winger will return to City's training ground this week to work individually, whilst his teammates are not due back for pre-season preparations until July 28.
The arrangement represents a collaborative decision between the player and club rather than any form of punishment. Grealish has been working with his personal trainer to maintain fitness levels ahead of the new campaign.
The former Aston Villa star's future at City appears increasingly uncertain after he started just seven Premier League matches last season.
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|The England forward's contract is making it difficult to move him away from the Etihad
His struggles for regular football were highlighted when Pep Guardiola excluded him from City's Club World Cup squad this summer. The England international, who has earned 39 caps for his country, has found opportunities limited under the Spanish manager in recent campaigns.
Several clubs have expressed interest in securing Grealish's services. West Ham United and Everton have both explored the possibility of a loan deal for the winger, according to the Telegraph.
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Italian champions Napoli, who have already signed Kevin De Bruyne from City this summer, have also considered making an approach. However, the player's substantial salary presents a significant hurdle for Antonio Conte's side and other potential suitors.
Financial complications continue to obstruct any potential departure. City paid £100million to secure Grealish from Aston Villa in 2021, and the club would reportedly accept offers around £40million for the player.
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|Jack Grealish has struggled for game time at Manchester City
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, Grealish recently expressed his affection for the club.
Speaking to a City supporter at Oasis's Heaton Park concert last week, he said: "You know what? Bro, I love City more than anything. And do you know what I love more than anything? City fans. They're the best fans in the world."
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Guardiola has defended his selection decisions regarding Grealish, insisting they were purely tactical rather than disciplinary. The City manager stated: "The only reason he didn't play minutes was me, not because he was incorrect or whatever."
The Spanish coach expressed support for his player, adding: "I want the best for Jack, his partner, his kids, his family. I don't know what's going to happen right now or have any doubts about the qualities of Jack."
Reuters | Pep Guardiola has insisted it was tactical reasons that Jack Grealish has been replaced
Guardiola also highlighted Grealish's contribution to City's treble-winning campaign, saying: "The quality has always been there, the year of the Treble would have been impossible."
Grealish remains under contract at the Etihad until 2027.