In the vibrant atmosphere of Everton’s new Hill Dickinson Stadium, Jack Grealish, the charismatic former Aston Villa star, marked a triumphant return to form with a dazzling full debut for his loan club. On August 24, 2025, the 29-year-old midfielder delivered two assists in a thrilling 2-0 victory over Brighton, earning him the Player of the Match award and reigniting his passion for the game. After a challenging final chapter at Manchester City, where he admitted to falling out of love with football, Grealish’s performance at Everton has sparked hope of a career renaissance, captivating fans and pundits alike with his flair and determination.
Grealish’s move to Everton on a season-long loan from Manchester City came after a period of frustration at the Etihad, where limited game time under Pep Guardiola dimmed his spark. “I didn’t enjoy football as much,” Grealish confessed, reflecting on his final seasons with the Premier League giants. Despite winning multiple titles, including the Champions League, his role diminished, leaving him yearning for the joy he once found on the pitch. His debut for Everton, however, was a statement of intent. Playing in front of a passionate Goodison crowd, Grealish orchestrated the attack with precision, setting up key moments that secured the Toffees’ first win at their new home. “Two assists on his first start and home debut. Your #EVEBHA Player of the Match: Jack Grealish!” the club’s official account declared, capturing the excitement of the moment.
The match wasn’t just a personal triumph for Grealish; it marked a historic day for Everton as they celebrated their first official game at the new stadium. Manager David Moyes, who has returned to guide the club, praised Grealish’s tenacity. “Jack was game for it; he didn’t try to shirk anything. He didn’t want off after 60 minutes – no chance,” Moyes said, emphasizing the midfielder’s hunger to prove himself. “He probably has something to prove. I had something to prove over the years at different times.” Moyes’ words resonated with fans, who saw echoes of Grealish’s early days at Aston Villa, where his flair and work rate made him a beloved figure.
Grealish’s impact was immediate, with his two assists showcasing the creativity that once made him England’s most expensive footballer at £100 million. His performance earned high praise from teammates and opponents alike. Declan Rice sent a heartfelt message post-match, while Troy Deeney noted, “Only bodes well,” after spotting Grealish’s dynamism in his first Everton start. Even Wayne Rooney was in awe, saying, “I really liked what he did vs Brighton.” Off the pitch, Grealish’s candidness about his struggles added depth to his story. He revealed a FaceTime call with a teammate sparked his decision to leave City, and he made a bold claim about Kevin De Bruyne: “I swear, he’s the best passer I’ve ever played with.” Such moments highlight Grealish’s emotional connection to the game, now being rediscovered at Everton.
The move to Merseyside has given Grealish a fresh canvas to paint his comeback. “Nos últimos anos não desfrutei do futebol como devia […] mas eu absolutamente amo futebol,” he said, his words resonating with fans who chanted his name as he left the pitch. His loan spell, which runs through the 2025-26 season, offers a chance to reclaim his spot in the England squad and silence doubters. Posts on social media reflected the sentiment: “Grealish fez duas assistências na primeira titularidade pelo Everton e saiu ovacionado. He’s back!” one fan exclaimed, capturing the optimism surrounding his revival.
As Everton look to build on their winning start, Grealish’s role will be pivotal. His performance against Brighton was a reminder of his ability to change games, but it’s his renewed love for football that truly excites. “Happy Jack is back,” one observer noted, summing up the mood. With Moyes’ backing and a fanbase eager for success, Grealish is poised to rewrite his story, one assist at a time, proving that sometimes, a change of scenery is all it takes to fall back in love with the beautiful game.
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