Jack Grealish insists Asia tour absence is injury-related as Enzo Maresca keeps options open

Jack Grealish has moved to clarify why he has been left out of Manchester City’s pre-season tour of Asia, insisting his omission is down to injury rather than a managerial decision, as new head coach Enzo Maresca signalled he is not ruling the winger out of his plans.

The 28-year-old has not travelled with City’s squad for their training camp and friendlies in Hong Kong and Seoul, despite taking part in the early stages of pre-season last week.

Responding on social media to a report shared by ESPN, citing the BBC, Grealish wrote: “Just to clarify, I’m still recovering from an injury, so I haven’t started training yet.”

He added: “I haven’t been left out, so stop spreading this nonsense.”

Grealish injury and World Cup blow Grealish is still working his way back from a foot injury sustained during his loan spell at Everton in January, an issue which brought his season to an early end.

The setback also cost him the chance to compete for a place in England’s squad for the World Cup, with his rehabilitation continuing into the summer.

Uncertain future as contract runs down The former Aston Villa forward is now entering the final year of his contract at Manchester City, with uncertainty surrounding his long-term future at the Etihad Stadium.

Grealish had already slipped out of favour under former manager Pep Guardiola, and there has been no public indication from the club so far that talks over a contract extension are progressing.

Maresca: ‘He is a Manchester City player right now’ New boss Enzo Maresca, however, has been careful not to close the door on Grealish’s prospects under his regime.

“In this moment he is a Manchester City player, and it is my duty to coach all the players that are in the club,” Maresca said when asked about the England international’s situation.

“I have a good relationship with Jack, he has a big heart and a great personality, and then we will see what happens.”

Off-field scrutiny In recent months, photographs circulating on social media appearing to show Grealish drinking have sparked fresh debate around the player.

Those images have prompted renewed questions over how such off-field perceptions might influence his chances of forcing his way back into the City side or attracting firm offers to leave the Premier League champions.

City begin Maresca era without Grealish Manchester City will begin the Maresca era with a friendly against Inter on Saturday, before facing a K League All-Stars side and then Atletico Madrid as part of their tour.

Grealish, meanwhile, remains in Manchester to follow an individual rehabilitation programme away from the travelling squad, with his fitness and future at the club still to be resolved in the weeks ahead.