Yeah, they've taken things to a higher level both in spending and success. And Grealish was very much an established star and kind of an exception in a lot of ways (during a summer in which they were also looking to make an exception for Kane).
And they've always spent very large money for players.
But I think the City story is less about one giant signing being "the guy" and more about maintaining a high level of investment in the completeness, fit for system, and prime-age of the squad. And they have been more committed to squad rotation than any other top PL club.
That's the winning attitude, for me, more than being willing to win the Declan Rice sweepstakes.
Can't stand them, but they're on another planet compared to the dumb-ass spending of Chavs, Man U, PSG & Barca.