Jack Grealish has opened up on his decision to join Everton from Manchester City ahead of the 2025-26 Premier League season.
Grealish signed a one-year loan deal with Everton on Tuesday to end his four-year stay at the Etihad.
He is Everton’s sixth signing of the summer following the arrivals of Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Charly Alcaraz, Thierno Barry, Mark Travers and Adam Aznou.
The former Aston Villa winger revealed that manager David Moyes convinced him to join the club.
Grealish said: “I’m over the moon to have signed for Everton – it’s massive for me, honestly. This is a great club, with great fans.
“As soon as I spoke to the manager, I knew there was only one place that I wanted to go. On social media, I’ve been flooded with messages from Everton supporters, so there’s that side of it as well and that’s another reason why I chose Everton.
“I want to say thank you to the fans for all of the messages I’ve had already. Thank you for all of the love and support. I hope I can repay you now and I’m sure I will.”
He also revealed the reasons behind choosing the no 18 shirt formerly worn by Wayne Rooney, and Paul Gascoigne.
Grealish said: “There is a reason [for choosing number 18]. There were other numbers but my two favourite English players ever are Wayne Rooney and Paul Gascoigne and I know they both wore number 18 here.
“So, as soon as I knew this deal was close, I had a look and number 18 was free, so that was perfect for me and it was the only number I was going to take from that point.
“I spoke to Wayne [Rooney] before I came here and I mentioned that to him – about the number 18 – so I hope he’s happy as well.”
Grealish joined City from Aston Villa in a deal worth £100m in August 202, and has made more than 150 appearances for the club – winning three Premier League titles, the Champions League and the FA Cup.
However, he has endured a difficult last two years at the club, falling below the pecking order following his inconsistent performances.
Everton coach, David Moyes, is looking forward to helping Grealish reclaim his national team spot ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
He said: “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.
“We’re all looking forward to working with him and providing a platform for him to show the best version of himself.”
Grealish will make his debut for Everton in their Premier League opener against Leeds United on Monday.
