Jack Grealish immediately loses Man City shirt number to new signing despite still being on club’s books

Manchester City have named their new No.10 for the upcoming season.

The shirt number has been reallocated despite Jack Grealish still being on the club’s books.

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@Everton / X

Grealish has completed a season-long loan move to Everton with the option to make the deal permanent next summer for £50million.

Following his departure, Rayan Cherki has been confirmed as the new City No.10.

The summer signing switches from the No.29, which he wore during the Club World Cup.

Cherki scored once and provided one assist in four appearances at the tournament.

It followed his £34million move from Lyon, signing a five-year deal at the Etihad Stadium.

Fans will have the chance to see their new No.10 in action away to Wolves on Saturday.

City kick-off their Premier League campaign at Molineux in the day’s evening fixture.

Cherki previously wore the shirt number at his former club having initially been given the No.18 after breaking into the first team.

The midfielder made 185 appearances for his boyhood club, scoring 29 goals and adding 45 assists.

He now inherits Grealish’s old number, which the England winger had worn since his £100million arrival in 2021.

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Fellow former No.10s include Sergio Aguero, Edin Dzeko, Robinho and Shaun Goater.

Grealish’s new shirt number

As for Grealish, he has also taken up a new number after completing his move to the Toffees.

The 29-year-old will wear the No.18 for David Moyes‘ side this season.

After completing his switch to the Hill Dickinson Stadium, Grealish revealed the inspiration for his decision.

He told the club’s media channels: “There is a reason for [choosing number 18].

“There were other numbers but my two favourite English players ever are Wayne Rooney and Paul Gascoigne and I know they both wore number 18 here.

“So, as soon as I knew this deal was close, I had a look and number 18 was free, so that was perfect for me and it was the only number I was going to take from that point.

“I spoke to Wayne [Rooney] before I came here and I mentioned that to him – about the number 18 – so I hope he’s happy as well.”

Grealish could make his Everton debut on Monday night as they travel to newly-promoted Leeds.

It would be his first Premier League start since April 2 if he is named in Moyes’ starting XI.