Jack Grealish Aston Villa return questioned as Everton preference emerges

Jack Grealish has been told a potential emotional return to Aston Villa may not suit Unai Emery’s demands, with former Villa striker Tony Cascarino questioning whether the winger fits the manager’s tactical requirements.

Grealish’s Manchester City future remains uncertain heading into the final stages of the transfer window after he was left out of the squad for Friday’s 4-1 victory at Crystal Palace.

Aston Villa have been linked with a loan move for their former captain, but Everton could provide another route away from the Etihad Stadium after Grealish impressed at Goodison Park last season.

Grealish came through Villa's academy after joining the club at six years old and eventually became captain before completing his £100million move to Manchester City in 2021.

A return to Villa Park would therefore carry considerable emotional significance, but Cascarino doubts Emery would sanction the move.

“I think the manager wouldn’t take Jack back,” Cascarino told talkSPORT Breakfast.

“I think Unai Emery wants certain players to do certain things and I’m not sure that Jack ticks those boxes.”

Former Ipswich striker Alan Brazil disagreed with the suggestion that Grealish might not offer enough to Villa, pointing towards his ability to carry the ball, retain possession and create danger around the penalty area.

New City head coach Enzo Maresca has indicated that Grealish could receive opportunities this season.

The 30-year-old featured in City's opening two matches but was absent from the squad against Palace, increasing speculation surrounding his future.

Regular football could also be important if Grealish wants to force his way back into the England picture.

He appeared to be rebuilding momentum during an impressive loan spell with Everton last season before an injury in January prematurely ended his campaign.

Grealish is understood to prefer another move to Everton should he leave Manchester City, although Villa have also been credited with interest in taking him back on loan.

City, meanwhile, have denied reports that Sunderland made an approach.

Everton manager David Moyes has refused to fuel speculation over a potential reunion despite acknowledging how well Grealish performed during his previous spell on Merseyside.

“Jack’s not at our club,” Moyes said. “He was brilliant for us, a great boy, but not for us to talk about because he’s at another club.”

Moyes did confirm Everton remain active in the market and are looking for opportunities to strengthen before the deadline.

With Grealish's situation at City unresolved, his future could therefore become one of the significant stories of the final days of the window.

Grealish must determine whether he has a significant role under Maresca or needs another move to secure regular football.

Villa remain a potential destination, but Cascarino believes the tactical fit could work against an emotional homecoming. Everton may therefore emerge as the more natural option if City allow Grealish to leave before the deadline.