Last updated on March 1, 2025
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Grealish has played a significant role in recent Man City’s FA Cup matches.
Image credit: DUKE OF MANCITY
Jack Grealish, a product of Aston Villa’s academy, made a high-profile £100 million move to Manchester City in 2021.
Since then, he has collected numerous trophies, including three Premier League titles, an FA Cup, and a Champions League.
However, his current season at City has been underwhelming, and speculation about his future is growing.
Former England striker Michael Owen believes a return to Villa for Grealish is now highly unlikely—and for reasons that go beyond football.
A Difficult Homecoming
When Grealish returned to Villa Park with Manchester City in December, the reception from the home crowd was anything but warm.
The midfielder, once adored by Villa fans, was jeered throughout the match.
Owen, who spoke about the incident, was deeply disappointed by the reaction and believes it may have permanently severed any potential reunion between Grealish and his boyhood club.
“Jack Grealish could’ve spent a few years at Manchester City and then returned to Aston Villa for a beautiful story, but I’m not sure he’ll want to do that now—and that’s really sad.”
Owen went on to criticize the culture of booing in football, stating that while it has long been part of the game, he finds it unacceptable.
“No one deserves to go to work, get booed, and go home feeling that way. Especially when it comes from your own fans.”
A Divided Fanbase
Many Aston Villa supporters condemned the treatment Grealish received, with some reaching out to Owen to express their disappointment.
“Most fans agree that it was an absolute disgrace. But the loud ones always ruin it for everyone else.”
Grealish, who spent years at Villa’s academy and was instrumental in securing the club a massive transfer fee, was expected to be welcomed back with respect.
Instead, the negative reception has likely eliminated any chance of a homecoming.
What’s Next for Grealish?
With his role at Manchester City diminishing, Grealish’s future is uncertain.
Reports suggest he could be offloaded in the summer transfer window, especially given his struggles this season—managing just two goals in 25 appearances.
However, he will have a chance to prove himself when City faces Plymouth in the FA Cup this Saturday.
