Jack Grealish, once the dazzling talisman of Aston Villa and a key cog in Manchester City’s treble-winning machine, has found a new lease on life at Everton. The 29-year-old midfielder, on a season-long loan from City, is thriving in his new surroundings at Hill Dickinson Stadium, Everton’s £800 million waterfront arena. Free from the constraints of Pep Guardiola’s rigid system, Grealish is rediscovering the flair and confidence that made him England’s £100 million man. With four assists in his first two Premier League starts, Grealish is not just revitalizing his career but also igniting hope among Everton fans eager for a hero in their club’s new era.
Grealish’s journey to Merseyside was born out of necessity. After a stellar 2022-23 season with Manchester City, where he played a pivotal role in their Premier League, Champions League, and FA Cup triumphs, his minutes dwindled. Last season, he started just seven league games and was omitted from City’s Club World Cup squad, a clear sign his time at the Etihad was waning. Seeking to reignite his passion and secure a spot in England’s 2026 World Cup squad, Grealish embraced Everton’s offer. “As soon as I spoke to the manager, I knew there was only one place that I wanted to go,” he told Everton’s media team, highlighting the instant connection he felt with manager David Moyes.
His impact was immediate. In Everton’s historic first match at Hill Dickinson Stadium, a 2-0 victory over Brighton, Grealish delivered two assists, earning a standing ovation from over 50,000 fans. Driving into the penalty area, he left Brighton’s Mats Wieffer trailing before crossing for Iliman Ndiaye to volley home the stadium’s first Premier League goal. “It was Grealish in the one-on-one territory he loved so much at his peak,” Moyes noted, praising his ability to take on defenders—a quality that had faded at City. His second assist, a precise pass to James Garner for a 25-yard screamer, showcased his vision and composure. Grealish’s joy was palpable, his smile “like it might have to be surgically removed,” as he described the “brilliant, brilliant day.”
A week later, Grealish orchestrated a thrilling 3-2 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers, again providing two assists. His clever interplay with Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall set up Ndiaye’s goal, while a delicate nod to Beto led to another. “He’s even better than I thought,” Moyes said, emphasizing Grealish’s work ethic and creativity. Against Wolves, he completed five dribbles, won 13 of 17 ground duels, and was fouled seven times, proving his ability to dominate in tight spaces. “Jack was game for it; he didn’t try to shirk anything,” Moyes added, noting his determination to prove doubters wrong.
Grealish’s resurgence extends beyond statistics. At Everton, he’s embraced as a beacon of hope, a marquee signing symbolizing the club’s ambition under new ownership. Fans chant “Super Jack” as he revels in their adoration, a stark contrast to his peripheral role at City. “It was like a UFC chokehold,” Grealish laughed after being mobbed by supporters at Molineux, capturing the electric connection with Evertonians. His decision to wear the number 18 shirt, inspired by idols Wayne Rooney and Paul Gascoigne, has further endeared him to the faithful. “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!” he said.
Off the pitch, Grealish’s marketability remains unmatched. His £15 million image rights fortune, bolstered by deals with Pepsi, Puma, Gucci, and Hellman’s, continues to grow. Despite a traumatic burglary at his Cheshire mansion in 2024, Grealish’s focus is unwavering. His move to Everton, costing the club £12 million in salary and fees, includes a £50 million option to buy—a potential bargain if he sustains this form. “From a sheer marketability perspective, he’s been one of the Premier League’s greatest assets,” noted a close associate, highlighting his ability to generate buzz on and off the field.
For Grealish, Everton offers a platform to rediscover his joy for the game. Under Moyes, who encourages his attacking freedom, Grealish is thriving alongside Ndiaye and Dewsbury-Hall, forming a dynamic midfield trio. His relentless work rate—seven possession wins and three tackles against Brighton—complements his flair, proving he’s more than a luxury player. With England manager Thomas Tuchel watching closely, Grealish’s performances could secure a World Cup berth. “He probably has something to prove,” Moyes said, drawing parallels to his own career. “I think sometimes it gives you that extra edge.”
As Everton build momentum in their new home, Grealish is at the heart of their revival. His early success suggests a glorious third act in a career that once seemed stalled. With every dribble, assist, and smile, Grealish is proving he’s not just free from Guardiola’s system—he’s back to his very best.
Leave a Reply