England men’s national football team manager Thomas Tuchel has issued a stern warning to Manchester City winger Jack Grealish, emphasising the need for the Manchester City winger to secure regular playing time to revive his international career ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Speaking after a win over Andorra despite a “disappointing” performance by England players, Tuchel has told Grealish that he is playing so little football at his club that it is hard to even consider him for the national team squad.
“I love Jack. I love his personality and, of course, his talent. He is a very unique player who can handle big pressure on the field. He’s never shy of pressure. I think he grows in big matches. But he is a player who needs minutes, minutes and minutes. And he simply does not get them since a very, very long time,” Tuchel said.
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Tuchel’s message might indirectly be a call to him to change teams and get the crucial minutes he requires. Jack Grealish’s 2024-25 season at Manchester City has had a notable impact on his inclusion in the England national team squad, with limited game time and inconsistent form playing a key role in his uncertain international status
Grealish started just seven Premier League games and appeared in 20 matches overall during the 2024-25 season, a significant drop from his more prominent role during City’s treble-winning 2022-23 campaign.
His attacking contributions were modest, with one Premier League goal (a 2-0 win over Leicester City on April 2, 2025) and no assists recorded in the league.
However, he did score in other competitions, including a penalty in an 8-0 FA Cup win against Salford City on January 11, 2025, and a goal in a 4-2 Champions League defeat to Paris Saint-Germain on January 22, 2025.
Grealish’s season was hampered by injuries, including a groin issue following a substitute appearance against Wolverhampton Wanderers and an abductor problem that sidelined him for key matches.
These setbacks limited his ability to regain the form seen during his treble-winning days, and Pep Guardiola often preferred other players like Savinho, citing better shape and consistency.
Grealish is expected to be left out of Manchester City’s squad for the FIFA Club World Cup, starting June 14, 2025, in the United States. This decision, combined with reduced minutes, has fueled speculation about his future at the club and his need for regular football elsewhere.
Despite omitting Grealish from key matches, Guardiola has defended his value, insisting he fought to bring him to City and wants the “treble-winning Jack” back.
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Both Tuchel and Guardiola have stressed that Grealish must play consistently to revive his career. With two years left on his £300,000-per-week contract, a move—potentially a loan—could be on the table, with interest expected from clubs in England and Europe.
With the 2026 World Cup looming, Grealish’s lack of minutes at City risks his England prospects. Tuchel’s comments suggest a window remains open, but he must prove his fitness and form, likely requiring a change of scenery if City’s plans exclude him.
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