England midfielder Jack Grealish has joined Everton on a one-year loan from Manchester City, aiming to revive his career ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

The 29-year-old, who became England’s most expensive player in 2021 after moving from Aston Villa to City for £100 million ($139 million), was a key figure in City’s treble-winning 2022-23 season. However, he has struggled for game time in the last two campaigns and was even left out of the squad for the recent Club World Cup.

“I’m over the moon to have signed for Everton — it’s massive for me,” said Grealish, praising the club’s passionate supporters. Everton have not won a major trophy since 1995.

The move frees up space in City’s wage bill and eases competition in their midfield-heavy squad. At Villa, Grealish thrived in a free, creative role, but under Pep Guardiola he played a more restricted left-sided forward position. Everton boss David Moyes is expected to restore his attacking freedom.

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Grealish will make his debut in Everton’s Premier League opener at Leeds on Monday, followed by their first match at the new 53,000-seat Bramley-Moore Dock Stadium against Brighton a week later.

He revealed he consulted former Everton star Wayne Rooney before agreeing to the deal and will wear the No. 18 shirt — the same number worn by Rooney and Paul Gascoigne.

Former England international Steve McManaman said the move may seem unusual given Everton’s midtable prospects, but Grealish’s priority is securing his place in the national squad.

Source: Agency