In what could be one of the most jaw-dropping transfer developments of the summer, Pep Guardiola has reportedly instructed Manchester City to offload Jack Grealish to Real Madrid in a surprise swap deal aimed at bringing Brazilian star Rodrygo to the Etihad. The news has sent shockwaves through the football world, with fans of both clubs struggling to process the potential implications of such a blockbuster move.
The report, which originates from Spain, claims that Guardiola is pushing hard for a radical shift in City’s attack by targeting Real Madrid’s young winger Rodrygo. Despite publicly praising Grealish as “an unbelievable player” just a month ago, Guardiola now appears ready to sacrifice the England international in order to rejuvenate his squad after a disappointing 2024/25 season.
Both Manchester City and Real Madrid fell short of expectations last season. While Madrid failed to capture the Champions League, La Liga, or the Copa del Rey, City had their own struggles, barely finishing in the top five of the Premier League and suffering a humiliating defeat in the FA Cup final at the hands of Crystal Palace.
In response to these underwhelming campaigns, both clubs are undergoing major transformations this summer. Real Madrid have already made big moves, appointing Xabi Alonso as head coach after Carlo Ancelotti’s departure to manage the Brazil national team. The Spanish giants have also secured several high-profile signings including Dean Huijsen, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Franco Mastantuono, signaling their intent to bounce back quickly.
Manchester City, for their part, have also been active in the transfer market. Tijjani Reijnders, Rayan Ait-Nouri, Rayan Cherki, and Marcus Bettinelli have all joined the squad. However, City are also set to lose key figures, with Kevin De Bruyne confirmed to be leaving and Jack Grealish looking increasingly likely to follow.
According to reports, Grealish has not been included in City’s squad for the upcoming Club World Cup, a clear indication that his time at the Etihad is coming to a close. Guardiola is believed to have directed City’s hierarchy to explore all options for moving Grealish to a European club, with Real Madrid seen as a potential destination due to the appeal of a swap involving Rodrygo.
At 29, Grealish is nearing the twilight of his prime years, and despite flashes of brilliance, his overall impact at Manchester City has not consistently justified the £100 million price tag he commanded in 2021. In contrast, Rodrygo is just 24 and still has his best footballing years ahead of him. His pace, flair, and goal-scoring instinct make him an attractive prospect for Guardiola’s evolving tactical plans.
The possibility of such a high-profile exchange has divided opinion across the footballing community. While some believe a Rodrygo-Grealish swap could work in City’s favor due to the Brazilian’s long-term potential, others argue that Madrid would never part ways with one of their most promising talents, especially with Kylian Mbappé now leading the attack.
Defensa Central has reported that Real Madrid have already made their stance clear — they are not willing to part with Rodrygo, especially not in exchange for Grealish. The Spanish club views Rodrygo as an integral part of their future and sees no logical benefit in acquiring an older player with an inconsistent track record in England.
Sources close to the Madrid camp say Xabi Alonso is planning to build his attack around younger, more dynamic talents, and Rodrygo fits perfectly into that strategy. Grealish, while experienced and skilled, does not align with Madrid’s current recruitment philosophy, which prioritizes youth, explosiveness, and long-term development.
Grealish, who has also attracted interest from Premier League rivals Everton and Newcastle United, may now be left in limbo if Madrid refuse the swap. City will likely need to find alternative destinations for the former Aston Villa captain, and unless another elite European side steps forward, they may be forced to lower their asking price.
This saga highlights the ruthlessness of Guardiola’s vision. He’s not afraid to make bold decisions, even if it means parting with high-profile players who were once seen as foundational. Grealish’s omission from the Club World Cup squad isn’t just symbolic — it’s strategic.
For Madrid, turning down the offer sends a message of confidence and continuity. They believe in the squad they’re building, and they won’t be swayed by flashy deals that don’t fit their long-term goals. Rodrygo remains a central figure in their future.
While the swap deal may not materialize, the mere discussion of it showcases how the dynamics of elite football continue to evolve. Big names can be moved at any time, and loyalty often takes a back seat to strategy, age, and adaptability.
As the transfer window heats up, fans should expect more surprises. But one thing is clear: Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City is preparing for a new era — and Jack Grealish may not be a part of it.
