Jack Grealish, the charismatic England midfielder, has embarked on a new chapter with Everton, securing a season-long loan from Manchester City in a move that has set Merseyside abuzz. The 29-year-old, once the cornerstone of a £100 million transfer to City in 2021, is looking to reignite his career after a challenging spell under Pep Guardiola, where injuries and limited game time saw him start just seven Premier League matches last season. Now, donning the iconic No. 18 shirt—a tribute to his footballing idols Wayne Rooney and Paul Gascoigne—Grealish is determined to recapture his spark and earn a spot in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for the 2026 World Cup. A candid conversation with Rooney, Everton’s legendary former star, played a pivotal role in his decision, adding a layer of nostalgia and ambition to his fresh start.
Grealish’s move to Everton, finalized on August 12, 2025, marks a homecoming of sorts, as he follows in the footsteps of Rooney and Gascoigne, both of whom wore the No. 18 during their stints with the Toffees. “There is a reason for [choosing number 18],” Grealish explained to Everton’s media team. “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.” His chat with Rooney, a figure synonymous with Everton’s grit and glory, sealed his choice. “I spoke to Wayne before I came here and I mentioned that to him – about the number 18 – so I hope he’s happy as well!” Grealish said, his excitement palpable as he prepared to make his debut against Leeds United at Elland Road on August 18, the opening match of Everton’s 2025-26 Premier League campaign.
The move comes at a critical juncture for Grealish, whose trophy cabinet boasts three Premier League titles, two FA Cups, a Champions League, a UEFA Super Cup, and a Club World Cup from his time at City. Yet, his limited 715 minutes of Premier League action last season and exclusion from Gareth Southgate’s Euro 2024 squad left him “heartbroken,” as he admitted. Now, under Everton manager David Moyes, Grealish sees a chance to rediscover the form that made him a £100 million star. “I’m over the moon to have signed for Everton – it’s massive for me, honestly,” he said. “This is a great club, with great fans. As soon as I spoke to the manager, I knew there was only one place that I wanted to go.” The outpouring of support from Everton supporters on social media further cemented his decision. “I’ve been flooded with messages from Everton supporters, so there’s that side of it as well, and that’s another reason why I chose Everton,” he added, expressing gratitude for the warm welcome.
Moyes, who secured Grealish as his sixth summer signing, is confident in the midfielder’s potential to shine. “I think we’re getting him at a good time because he’s experienced, he understands the Premier League, and we’re all fully aware of the levels he’s capable of performing to,” Moyes said. “I know Jack’s ambition is to get back into the England squad, so hopefully we can help him achieve that over the course of the season.” Everton’s deal includes a £50 million option to buy, though Grealish’s impending 30th birthday makes a permanent transfer less likely. The club is covering most of his £12 million wages, a significant commitment as they prepare to move into the new Hill Dickinson Stadium for the 2025-26 season.
Grealish’s choice of Everton over offers from Napoli and Atletico Madrid reflects his desire to stay in the Premier League and prove himself on a familiar stage. His first training session at Finch Farm on August 12 marked the start of a journey to revive his career and silence doubters. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, Grealish’s performances at Goodison Park—and soon Hill Dickinson Stadium—will be crucial. As he channels the spirit of Rooney and Gascoigne, Grealish is ready to dazzle Everton fans and chase his World Cup dream, one flair-filled dribble at a time.
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