Enzo Maresca makes his stance clear on Mateo Kovacic and Jack Grealish amid Manchester City uncertainty
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has delivered an important message regarding the futures of Mateo Kovacic and Jack Grealish, insisting that both players will receive his full support for as long as they remain at the Etihad Stadium.
With transfer speculation continuing to surround several members of City’s squad this summer, Maresca has chosen to focus on the present rather than entertain rumours. His comments underline a management style built on trust, professionalism and fairness as he begins life as Manchester City’s new head coach after replacing Pep Guardiola in June 2026.
The Italian tactician made his position clear following City’s opening pre-season fixture against Inter Milan in Hong Kong, where Kovacic featured against his former club.
Mateo Kovacic starts against former club Inter Milan
Kovacic was included in Maresca’s starting lineup for the 1-1 draw with Inter Milan before City lost the penalty shootout.
Although the result was disappointing, the Croatian midfielder once again demonstrated his experience in the middle of the park, helping City control possession for long periods against one of Europe’s strongest teams.
Facing the club where he began his professional career added another layer of interest to the occasion, but Kovacic approached the game with his usual composure.
His selection also suggested that Maresca continues to value the midfielder despite speculation linking him with a possible move away from Manchester.
Jack Grealish remains a major talking point
While Kovacic was on the pitch in Hong Kong, Jack Grealish continues to dominate transfer discussions away from it.
The England international has faced constant speculation throughout the summer, with several clubs reportedly monitoring his situation.
Despite the uncertainty, Maresca has refused to be distracted by rumours. Instead, he has made it clear that Grealish remains a Manchester City player and deserves the same level of commitment from the coaching staff as every other member of the squad.
That approach reflects the culture Maresca is attempting to build during his first months in charge.
Rather than allowing transfer stories to create unnecessary distractions, he is focusing on helping every player perform at their highest level.
Maresca’s message is simple: total commitment
One of the strongest themes emerging from Maresca’s early interviews is his commitment to every player under his management.
His comments regarding Kovacic and Grealish reinforce that philosophy.
Whether a player stays for another five years or leaves before the transfer window closes, Maresca believes they deserve complete professionalism from both the coaching staff and their teammates.
That attitude is particularly important during pre-season, when players are working to regain fitness and prove their value ahead of the competitive campaign.
For Kovacic and Grealish, knowing they have the backing of the manager could prove significant over the coming weeks.
A fresh start under Enzo Maresca
Every managerial change creates new opportunities.
Players who may have found themselves on the fringes under one coach often receive a fresh chance to impress under another.
That could be particularly relevant for Jack Grealish.
The winger has shown flashes of his immense quality during his Manchester City career but has often struggled for consistency due to injuries, competition for places and tactical adjustments.
Under Maresca, Grealish has an opportunity to rebuild his importance within the squad if he remains beyond the summer transfer window.
Similarly, Kovacic has the chance to establish himself as a key figure in the Italian coach’s midfield system.
Competition for places remains fierce
Manchester City’s squad remains one of the strongest in European football, meaning competition for starting positions is inevitable.
Players must consistently perform at a high level to secure regular minutes.
For experienced professionals like Kovacic and Grealish, that challenge is nothing new.
Both understand the demands of playing for Manchester City and know every training session offers another opportunity to impress.
Maresca’s willingness to judge players on current performances rather than speculation should encourage healthy competition throughout the squad.
Leadership will be crucial this season
As Manchester City enter a new era, experienced figures will play an increasingly important role.
While young talents continue to emerge from the academy, established internationals such as Kovacic provide valuable leadership both on and off the pitch.
Even if transfer speculation continues, maintaining professionalism during pre-season sends a positive example to younger players looking to establish themselves.
Jack Grealish also remains one of the senior personalities within the dressing room.
His experience of winning major honours with City means he understands the standards required to compete for trophies.
Should he remain at the club, his influence could prove just as important as his performances on the pitch.
The transfer window remains unpredictable
Manchester City’s transfer business is rarely straightforward.
Every summer brings speculation involving both incoming and outgoing players, particularly at one of the world’s biggest clubs.
While supporters naturally debate potential departures, Maresca has adopted a calm and measured approach.
His focus remains firmly on preparing the players currently available to him rather than becoming distracted by media reports.
That mentality should help City maintain stability during the final weeks of the transfer window.
Kovacic’s performance offers encouragement
Against Inter Milan, Kovacic looked sharp despite it being only the opening pre-season fixture.
His passing remained crisp, while his movement helped City retain control in midfield for significant periods.
Fitness rather than results remains the primary objective during pre-season, and the Croatian’s performance suggested he is building towards full match sharpness.
If he stays at Manchester City, Kovacic could become an important part of Maresca’s tactical plans throughout the 2026/27 season.
What Maresca’s comments mean for Manchester City supporters
Supporters often look for clarity whenever transfer rumours intensify.
Although Maresca did not guarantee either player’s long-term future, his comments provided an important insight into how he intends to manage the squad.
Every player currently wearing the Manchester City badge will receive his full commitment.
That message should reassure supporters who want unity within the squad as City begin a new chapter under a new manager.
Whether Kovacic and Grealish remain beyond the transfer window or eventually move elsewhere, Maresca has made one thing perfectly clear.
Until any decision is made, both players will have his complete backing.
That professionalism could prove invaluable as Manchester City continue preparing for another campaign filled with domestic and European ambitions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Enzo Maresca say about Mateo Kovacic?
Enzo Maresca said he would give everything to help Mateo Kovacic for as long as the midfielder remains a Manchester City player, despite ongoing transfer speculation.
What did Enzo Maresca say about Jack Grealish?
Maresca confirmed that Jack Grealish has his full support and that he will continue working with him while he remains at Manchester City.
Did Mateo Kovacic play against Inter Milan?
Yes. Mateo Kovacic started Manchester City’s pre-season match against his former club Inter Milan in Hong Kong.
Is Jack Grealish leaving Manchester City?
Jack Grealish has been linked with a move away during the summer transfer window, but no official decision has been confirmed. Maresca has stated that he remains committed to helping the winger while he is still part of the squad.
Why are Kovacic and Grealish’s futures being discussed?
Both players have been the subject of transfer speculation as Manchester City reshape their squad under new manager Enzo Maresca ahead of the 2026/27 season.
What does Maresca’s statement mean for Manchester City?
His comments highlight a player-first approach, showing that every member of the squad will receive equal support and opportunities regardless of ongoing transfer rumours. This creates stability and unity during an important period of pre-season preparation.
