Jack Grealish and Kyle Walker excluded from Manchester City's Club World Cup squad

In June 2025, Manchester City announced the exclusion of Jack Grealish and Kyle Walker from its squad for the upcoming Club World Cup. The decision, made by manager Pep Guardiola, reflects the diminished roles both players have assumed in the team, with Grealish notably starting only one Premier League match during the 2024-25 season. Walker, who spent the latter part of the season on loan at AC Milan, was similarly absent despite returning to the club’s roster. The omission of these high-profile players raises questions about their future at the Etihad Stadium, especially as City undergoes a significant squad overhaul, having recently made four new signings. Speculation surrounds Grealish's potential departure from the club, with numerous teams across England and Europe reportedly interested in acquiring him, further complicating his standing post-exclusion. Additionally, Kevin De Bruyne's impending exit after his contract expiration further accents the club's shift in strategy, as City looks to recalibrate its midfield options moving forward. They will be competing in the United States against teams like Wydad Casablanca and Al Ain, with the tournament set to showcase new signings including Rayan Cherki, Tijjani Reijnders, and Rayan Ait-Nouri. The absence of Grealish and Walker signifies a pivotal moment for Manchester City, signaling a change in direction aimed at building a more competitive squad for the coming seasons.