Unai Emery has been urged to make a bold move in the upcoming January transfer window. Lee Hendrie, a former Aston Villa midfielder, has suggested the club pursue Manchester City’s Jack Grealish, though he acknowledges the financial difficulties that may arise in making such a transfer.
Hendrie believes this could be the perfect time for Grealish to leave City, as the 29-year-old has faced challenges in securing regular game time under Pep Guardiola. With his career entering its final years, sitting on the bench won’t benefit his longevity. Moreover, given City’s underperformance this season, it might be the right moment for Grealish to seek a new opportunity.
While Grealish still has over two years remaining on his £100 million contract at City, Hendrie feels a return to Villa could be beneficial for both sides, at least from a footballing perspective.
“I’d love to see Jack Grealish back at Aston Villa. Grealish is Villa through and through,” Hendrie shared with 10bet. “I remember talking to him when he joined City. He was finding it tough to adjust to his new surroundings. I encouraged him to keep going and enjoy his football, as it was his time to win trophies — and that’s exactly what he’s done.”
“He’s a fantastic person with a big heart, and we haven’t seen the best of Grealish at City. He’s been playing according to his manager’s demands, but when he plays for England, he’s a different player. He plays with more freedom, and although his stats haven’t been as impressive, we know his potential.”
“I think it’s time for Jack to leave City. No one can argue that the move hasn’t been successful; he’s won everything there is to win, but he needs to rediscover his joy for the game. He’d be a great asset for any top club. I’d love him back at Villa, but the finances might make it difficult.”
Hendrie also mentioned that while Villa fans may have given Grealish some criticism in the past, they would likely welcome his return. “He wouldn’t come back just for the money; he’d want to help Villa reach new heights,” Hendrie concluded.
While a return to Villa remains uncertain, Grealish’s future at Manchester City is now in question. With 14 goals and 20 assists in 143 appearances for City, the 39-time England international may soon face a pivotal decision as his prime years near their end.
