Jack Grealish has long been a name synonymous with flair, high expectations and, more recently, the roller-coaster ride that comes with Premier League stardom. This summer has seen his journey take an unexpected turn: the England international is set to join Everton on loan from Manchester City. As the story unfolds, his move has swiftly become one of Britain’s most searched and talked-about sports news—fuelled by hopes, doubts and speculation about what’s next for one of English football’s most recognisable personalities.
A Stagnant Chapter at Manchester City
Grealish’s time at the Etihad Stadium began with fireworks. Transferred from Aston Villa for a record £100million in 2021, he became both City’s and British football’s most expensive signing. The investment paid dividends early: Grealish played a key role as Manchester City clinched three Premier League titles, the Champions League and the FA Cup, celebrating the treble in 2022-23—a season where he started every knockout game in Europe and made 50 appearances overall.
Yet, since then, the narrative shifted. Injuries and fierce competition within Pep Guardiola’s squad saw Grealish’s starts dwindle to just seven Premier League appearances in the 2024-25 season, a dramatic drop for a player of his calibre. Guardiola’s selection moved towards other options like Phil Foden and Bernardo Silva, signalling a diminishing role for Grealish at City.
Rumours of a fallout with Guardiola were largely refuted by the manager himself, but the reality was difficult to ignore. Grealish found himself increasingly sidelined. “I want Jack to be at his best. I’ve seen what he can do. I expect that level every time,” Guardiola stated back in January—calling for a return to the player who helped City reach the summit of English and European football.
Why Everton and Why Now?
The loan deal with Everton, expected to be formalised after Grealish completes his medical, arrives at a watershed moment in both his career and Everton’s broader ambitions. For Grealish, it opens a door to regular first-team football—security he desperately needs as he aims for a place in England’s World Cup squad next summer. His form at club level will likely be decisive if Gareth Southgate is invited to select his final roster.
On Everton’s side, the signing marks their fifth major reinforcement of a busy summer window. The Merseyside club, under David Moyes, have moved quickly, bringing in new signings including Thierno Barry, Mark Travers, Adam Aznou, and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall. For Moyes, Grealish represents the creative spark the team has missed. The club’s recent change in ownership and an impending move to the Hill Dickinson Stadium underscore ambitions to restore Everton’s competitive stature in the Premier League.
The Toffees’ willingness to spend, coupled with the lure of more playing time for Grealish, creates the possibility of a rejuvenated side ready to take on the league’s elites. Moyes, who has historically built his teams around strong attacking midfielders, sees Grealish as an ideal candidate to revive their fortunes.
The Drive to Regain Form
Grealish’s dip in form has not gone unnoticed. In 2024-25, he managed only one goal and one assist in 20 Premier League appearances for Manchester City, a notable decline from his previous outputs. His conversion rate for shots to goals is just 6.25%, ranking him far lower than other attacking midfielders in the league. Injuries, most notably a groin issue sustained during a Champions League match against Real Madrid, have disrupted his rhythm, leading to spells out of the matchday squad.
Despite recent setbacks, Grealish remains optimistic. He has publicly expressed devotion to his clubs and supporters, saying, “I love City more than anything. And do you know what I love more than anything? City fans! They’re the best fans in the world!” Yet, his move to Everton signals a new chapter—one where his leadership, technical ability and vision could underpin a much-needed resurgence
Expert Opinion: What Lies Ahead?
Football pundits and analysts agree that Everton will benefit immensely if Grealish returns to his best. European football expert Kevin Hatchard suggested, “If Moyes structures the team around Grealish’s strengths, we might see a revival of the type of creative, attacking football that made him unplayable at Villa and City in their treble-winning campaign.”
There is also speculation that the move could be as much about Grealish rekindling his passion for football as it is about tactical fit. His unique dribbling skill and knack for drawing fouls remain his core assets, and Everton’s supportive environment might be just what he needs to rediscover his form.
The Road Ahead for Grealish and Everton
Looking forward, all eyes will be on Grealish’s adaptation at Everton and whether Moyes can weave him into a new tactical scheme that maximises his talents. For the player, a successful loan season could mean a permanent move, a return to form, and the coveted spot in England’s World Cup team. For Everton, it could mean a rebirth—and a rallying point for their fans.
Both the player and the club are at crossroads. With the summer’s transfer window still in swing, the Grealish story continues to unfold amidst high hopes and cautious optimism.
As the new season approaches, UK football supporters will keenly watch Grealish’s every move at Goodison Park. Will he become the match-winner, the creative engine and the inspirational leader Everton crave? Time will tell, but for now, the spotlight is firmly on Jack Grealish—ready for a comeback, ready for a new chapter.
Read more: bbc sport football