LONDON, 15 March 2025 (BSS/AFP) – Thomas Tuchel has emphasised that Jack Grealish must demonstrate “responsibility” off the pitch, despite insisting that the Manchester City star’s omission from his first England squad was purely for sporting reasons.
Grealish was one of the most notable absentees when Tuchel announced his squad on Friday for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Albania and Latvia.
The 29-year-old has not started a Premier League match for City in three months, owing to a combination of injuries and inconsistent form. While he has been absent from the spotlight on the pitch, his activities off it have continued to draw attention.
Recent images surfaced of Grealish allegedly visiting multiple venues in the north-east, where he was reported to have bought drinks for locals at a social club. However, Tuchel was adamant that such incidents played no role in his decision to exclude him, citing purely footballing reasons.
“I love Jack. I love everything about him. I love his personality, I love his quality. The guy has courage, he can take the heat, he’s not afraid of the whistles when he’s on the ball,” Tuchel remarked.
“So, is he a player that should be available and can have an impact in our squad? Yes, 100 per cent.
“But lately, he simply has no rhythm and he himself – and I agree 100 per cent – said, ‘Listen, Thomas, I’m not a start-stop player. It is so hard for me to influence a match from the bench and then be on the bench again, and then two weeks later I start again.’
“I’m not judging anyone, not at all, but it’s just a characteristic of Jack.
“And he has, of course, a character to him that he can be the glue in the team. It’s very easy for youngsters to be attached to him and to be close to him. But this also comes with responsibility off the pitch.”
Grealish had been recalled to the England squad under interim manager Lee Carsley after being omitted by Gareth Southgate for last year’s European Championship.
Addressing the off-field scrutiny surrounding Grealish, Tuchel added: “No one wants to have these headlines, but this was not the reason for not picking him.
“It was sporting. In his position, Anthony Gordon has had more rhythm, more minutes, more intensity, and Marcus Rashford came in, so those were the two picks ahead of him.”
Context: Grealish’s Role in England and City:
Grealish, once regarded as a key player in England’s attack, has faced a challenging season with Manchester City. Injuries and competition for places have hindered his playing time, while Pep Guardiola’s tactical adjustments have further complicated his role in the squad.
For England, Grealish has been a divisive figure. While his flair and creativity are admired, questions over his consistency and discipline have lingered. His omission comes at a time when England’s attacking options have strengthened, with players like Gordon and Rashford finding form.
With the World Cup qualifiers ahead, Tuchel appears to be setting a precedent that form and fitness will be paramount in selection decisions. However, Grealish still has time to force his way back into the squad before next year’s tournament.