Jack Grealish has completed a season-long loan move from Manchester City to Everton, declaring the club was his only choice after discussions with manager David Moyes.
The 29-year-old becomes the Merseyside team’s sixth summer recruit, joining Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Charly Alcaraz, Thierno Barry, Mark Travers, and Adam Aznou. He is set to make his first appearance for the club in their opening Premier League fixture away to Leeds on Monday.
The England international moved to City from Aston Villa in August 2021 for a then-British record £100m fee. He made more than 150 appearances, winning three league titles, the Champions League, and the FA Cup. However, last season he started just seven league matches and was left out of the squad for the Club World Cup in the United States.
Manager talks convinced him
Grealish said he was “over the moon” to have signed and praised Everton’s supporters for their messages. “As soon as I spoke to the manager, I knew there was only one place I wanted to go,” he explained, adding that the fans’ online support played a part in his decision.
He expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and vowed to repay the backing he has already received. The move offers him a fresh opportunity to take a leading role at Everton’s new home ground and work towards regaining a place in the England squad after missing out on the 2024 European Championship.
Moyes said: “We’re getting him at a good time. He’s experienced, knows the league, and we’re aware of what he can do. We want to give him the stage to show his best form.”
Tribute to Rooney and Gascoigne
The winger will wear shirt number 18, a choice inspired by two of his football heroes, Wayne Rooney and Paul Gascoigne, who both wore that number for the club.
Grealish revealed he spoke to Rooney before finalizing the move and shared his intention to take the number. “I hope he’s happy as well,” he added.
