In a dazzling start to the 2025/26 Premier League season, Jack Grealish has emerged as Everton’s new talisman, reigniting his career and catching the eye of England legend Wayne Rooney. The 29-year-old attacking midfielder, on a season-long loan from Manchester City, has wasted no time making an impact at Goodison Park, registering an impressive four assists in just three Premier League matches. This blistering form has prompted Rooney, one of England’s most iconic players, to passionately advocate for Grealish’s return to the Three Lions squad under manager Thomas Tuchel. “England have got the players. They’ve got good enough players,” Rooney declared on *The Wayne Rooney Show*. “I’d like to see some players back playing like Phil Foden because I think these are players who could have a real impact. And Grealish, hopefully continuing his form and getting back in the squad.”
Grealish’s journey to Everton marked a pivotal turning point after a challenging stint at Manchester City, where he struggled for regular playing time under Pep Guardiola. With just seven Premier League starts last season, Grealish found himself on the fringes, a far cry from the dynamic playmaker who commanded a £100 million transfer fee in 2021. His move to Everton, finalized in the summer of 2025, offered a fresh start under the stewardship of David Moyes, a manager known for revitalizing careers. Moyes himself expressed confidence in Grealish’s potential, stating, “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.” Grealish has embraced this opportunity, donning the iconic No. 18 shirt—previously worn by Rooney and Paul Gascoigne, two of his childhood idols—at Everton’s new Bramley-Moore Dock stadium.
The impact was immediate. Despite not starting in Everton’s opening loss to Leeds United, Grealish came off the bench to showcase his flair, setting up two assists in each of his subsequent starts against Brighton and Wolves. His creativity and work rate have won over Everton fans, who flooded his social media with messages of support upon his arrival. “I’m over the moon to have signed for Everton—it’s massive for me, honestly,” Grealish said. “As soon as I spoke to the manager, I knew there was only one place that I wanted to go.” His performances have earned him a nomination for the Premier League Player of the Month award, a testament to his rapid resurgence. Roy Keane, another footballing luminary, has also backed Grealish, noting his hunger to prove himself: “He’s showing an attitude that fans would have wished to see.”
For England manager Thomas Tuchel, Grealish’s form presents both opportunity and challenge. Despite his admiration for the midfielder—“I love everything about him – his personality, his quality, the guy has courage,” Tuchel said in March 2025—Grealish was omitted from the latest England squad for World Cup qualifiers against Andorra and Serbia. Tuchel cited fierce competition, opting for players like Marcus Rashford and Eberechi Eze, but emphasized that Grealish remains “always in the mix.” With the 2026 World Cup looming, Tuchel faces a dilemma: Grealish’s versatility as a left winger or central playmaker could be a game-changer, but he must contend with a wealth of attacking options, including Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden.
Grealish’s revival at Everton is not just about statistics; it’s about rediscovering his joy for the game. Inspired by Rooney and Gascoigne, he chose the No. 18 shirt to honor their legacy, even discussing the decision with Rooney before signing. “I spoke to Wayne before I came here and mentioned the number 18—so I hope he’s happy as well!” Grealish shared. As he continues to dazzle on Merseyside, the narrative is clear: Grealish is not just fighting for a spot in Tuchel’s squad but aiming to emulate his heroes and cement his place as one of England’s brightest stars.
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