Grealish Delivers, Guardiola Hints at Departure If Things Change
17 October 2025
Grealish's Impact and Haaland's Peak
Ahead of the Saturday trip to Everton, Guardiola said City approach the eighth round of the Premier League with focus and the ambition to keep improving.
He highlighted that Erling Haaland is in the best physical and footballing spell since joining City and touched on Jack Grealish, who is flourishing this season and regaining regular minutes.
Loan Rule Joke and Guardiola's Future Plans
Guardiola noted Grealish's influence on Everton this campaign: his impact has been massive from day one and he is now part of every match. He is a wonderful person, and the timing of his opportunities has improved as he returns to regular duty.
On whether the loan rule should allow players to face their parent clubs, the coach joked that if he ever becomes a CEO or head of a big institution in England, he might change it. For now, he says he has no firm view.
He added that he hasn't spoken with Grealish yet but hopes to see him soon. He joked about retirement, suggesting that in 2035 he might consider taking a break, underscoring that change comes when the club feels the moment is right.
He stressed that his relationship with the club's leadership remains honest and open, and that the team will act in the club's best interests when it's time to move forward. The line about leaving only when he becomes the problem reflects his mindset.
Haaland's Form and Team Updates
The manager gave updates on injuries: Rodri is not yet ready for tomorrow; Kovacic's return is positive for the squad. Marmoush and Nyouri are close to returning after training the day before.
On Josko Gvardiol, Guardiola praised his physical capacity and noted he can play on both flanks and in two positions, with room for further improvement as a young defender navigates a busy season.
Regarding Haaland, Guardiola said he is in the best form since joining City and that maintaining that level forever is unrealistic. The World Cup in the United States would be a wonderful milestone for Haaland and Norway.
