David Moyes and Pep Lijnders react to ‘very disappointing’ injury update concerning Manchester City star | OneFootball

Manchester City have received a fresh blow to one of their out-on-loan stars as the remainder of Jack Grealish’s campaign was thrown into doubt through a foot injury.

The development marks a frustrating moment in what has been a stop-start period for the England international, who moved away from the Etihad Stadium in search of consistent minutes and rhythm.

As previously reported, Jack Grealish’s immediate-term future had already been clouded by uncertainty amid shifting squad priorities at Manchester City, making the need for sustained football all the more important.

The situation is particularly disappointing given the intention behind the loan move, with City officials viewing regular involvement away from Guardiola’s squad as a platform for Grealish to build momentum, sharpen fitness, and push his case at ahead of the upcoming World Cup.

Everton, meanwhile, had been hoping to rely on Grealish’s experience and creativity during a decisive phase of the season, and after some hugely impressive performances during the first-half of the campaign, any prolonged absence now represents a significant setback.

Speaking to reporters on Friday morning, Everton boss David Moyes confirmed the possibility of the Manchester City loanee missing the remainder of the season as a result of the stress fracture sustained in his foot.

“We believe he is probably going to need surgery,” Moyes said on Jack Grealish during a pre-match press conference. He continued, “And it probably rules him out for the rest of the season.”

Issuing his own comment and reaction to the latest on the club’s out-on-loan star, Manchester City assistant coach Pep Lijnders told the media, “I think Jack doesn’t have to prove anything, what he did in the last years here. Jack’s a player who, from each situation, can create chances.

“He’s had an excellent season. I’d be very disappointed because he made the move to play, always involved, and being injured – I don’t know how severe it is – hopefully he can come back, and hopefully for England he’ll be available because these players decide tournaments.”

Looking ahead, attention will now turn to the severity of the injury and the proposed surgical route, with timelines likely to dictate how Manchester City approach Jack Grealish’s pre-season and longer-term role.

It currently remains to be seen whether Everton or Manchester City will look after Grealish during his rehabilitation period, and whether the loan deal will remain in tact as a result.

Despite the hugely encouraging performances, there is now likely to also be a conversation had within the Hill Dickinson Stadium over whether the Toffees choose to pursue a permanent deal for Jack Grealish in the summer amid a £50 million option to buy in the loan deal.