Grealish Joins Everton on Loan, Eyes Career Revival

Jack Grealish says Everton was “the only place” he wanted to be after completing a season-long loan move from Manchester City, Sport360NG reports.

The 29-year-old England international becomes David Moyes’ sixth addition of the summer, following Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Charly Alcaraz, Thierno Barry, Mark Travers and Adam Aznou.

Grealish revealed that a conversation with Moyes was central to his decision to make the switch to the Hill Dickinson Stadium.

“I’m absolutely delighted to sign for Everton, this means so much to me. It’s a massive club with incredible fans,” Grealish said. “The moment I spoke with the manager, I knew this was where I wanted to be. The support I’ve seen from Everton fans online has been amazing, and that’s played a big part in my choice. I can’t thank them enough for the welcome, and I’ll do everything I can to repay it.”

The winger could make his debut in Monday’s Premier League opener away to Leeds.

Grealish joined City from Aston Villa in August 2021 for a then-British record £100m fee, making over 150 appearances and winning three Premier League titles, the Champions League and FA Cup. But his opportunities dwindled last season, with just seven league starts, and he was omitted from the Club World Cup squad.

The move offers him a chance to rediscover form, play a leading role at Everton’s new home, and push for a return to the England squad after missing Euro 2024, an omission he described as “heartbreaking.”

Moyes believes Everton can be the platform Grealish needs.

“We’re getting Jack at a great time,” said the Everton boss. “He’s got Premier League know-how, he’s experienced, and we all know the heights he can reach. We’re looking forward to helping him show his best again.”

Following in Iconic Footsteps

Grealish will wear the number 18 shirt, inspired by two of his boyhood idols.

“Wayne Rooney and Paul Gascoigne are my two favourite English players, and they both wore 18 here,” he explained. “As soon as I knew the deal was close, I checked if it was available, and it was. I even spoke to Wayne about it, so hopefully he’s pleased too.”

Where Will He Fit?

Grealish’s arrival is a statement of intent, but his best position could be a puzzle for Moyes. The Everton manager largely favoured a 4-2-3-1 setup last season, with Grealish spending the bulk of his career on the left wing – 80% of his Premier League minutes for City and 64% at Aston Villa.

Everton already have strong options on that flank, including Iliman Ndiaye, last season’s top scorer, and Dwight McNeil. That could push Grealish into a central role, where he may need to adjust to the defensive work Moyes demands.

For now, Everton fans will simply be eager to see one of English football’s most gifted playmakers back on the pitch, ready to make an impact.