Jack Grealish’s transfer to Everton this summer has proven to be a transformative experience for the England international, who recently admitted his love for the club and his renewed passion for the game. In a surprisingly candid interview, the former Manchester City star confessed that the connection he’s formed with the club and its fans is something he “really [doesn’t] know how or why” it happened, but that it’s “so lovely.” đź’™
A Fresh Start at Goodison
The move came after a difficult period for Grealish at Manchester City, where he found himself falling out of favor under manager Pep Guardiola. The 30-year-old was even left out of City’s squad for the Club World Cup in order to find a new club. By his own admission, Grealish had “fallen out of love” with the sport, but his temporary switch to Everton has reignited his passion.
Since his arrival at the new Hill Dickinson Stadium on a season-long loan, Grealish has made an immediate and significant impact. He’s already registered four assists in just three Premier League starts, showing flashes of the brilliant, free-flowing football that made him a star at his previous club, Aston Villa. The move has been a “match made in heaven” for both the player and the club.
The Connection with Fans
Part of what has made the move so special for Grealish is the passionate support from Everton fans. He’s been flooded with messages on social media and feels the love from the stands at every game. “I just want to thank [the fans] for all the support and all the love,” he said, adding, “Listen, hopefully I can repay you in so many different ways and hopefully there’s many more good times to come.” His family has also noticed the change, attending every game and seeing the special bond he has formed with the Toffees faithful.
Grealish’s move has also brought a sense of renewed hope to the club, which has faced a few tough seasons. The addition of a high-profile player like him has captured the imagination of supporters and signaled a new era for the historic club. This new chapter is not just about the men’s team; Grealish has also thrown his full support behind Everton Women and their move to the iconic Goodison Park. He believes the relocation will help the women’s team create a “fortress” and attract more fans, a sentiment that stems from his close relationship with the female members of his own family, including his two younger sisters, his mother, and his girlfriend. “I think it’s incredible from Everton to give Goodison Park to the team because I feel like it’s like theirs now to go and perform,” he remarked.
A Renewed Sense of Purpose
Beyond his on-field performance and connection with the fans, the transfer has provided Grealish with a fresh sense of purpose. He chose the number 18 shirt as a tribute to his footballing idols, Wayne Rooney and Paul Gascoigne, both of whom wore the number during their time at Everton. He even spoke to Rooney before the move, discussing the significance of the number and the values of the club.
The loan spell is also seen as a crucial opportunity for Grealish to reclaim his spot in the England squad ahead of next summer’s World Cup. While he was a pivotal part of City’s treble-winning side, a season on the periphery of the first team made it clear his future lay elsewhere. Everton manager David Moyes, who has long admired Grealish, believes the player has something to prove and that this challenge will help him find his best form. Moyes’ confidence in him and his willingness to give him the freedom to express himself on the pitch are exactly what Grealish needed to get back to his best.
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