By Martin Graham
Jack Grealish made a strong impression in his first competitive outing for Everton, providing both assists in their 2-0 victory over Brighton at the newly opened Hill Dickinson Stadium. The 29-year-old, speaking after his full debut, admitted that in recent years he had struggled to fully enjoy football while at Manchester City.
Reflecting on his move, Grealish explained that his priority was to regain the excitement of playing regularly. He acknowledged that at times during his final seasons at City he did not feel the same enthusiasm, describing it as not entirely losing love for the game, but lacking the enjoyment he once had. According to him, even his family noticed the change in his mood at home. He emphasized that this was his own responsibility, not caused by anyone else.
Grealish added that his goal now is to revive the thrill of matchdays, the feeling of anticipation he had been missing. He believes that against Brighton, that passion returned, and he hopes his display reflected it.
Struggles at Manchester City
The England international endured a difficult campaign last season, starting only seven Premier League fixtures as his role diminished at the Etihad Stadium. Once a record signing in 2021, when City invested £100 million ($135m) to secure him from Aston Villa, he has since struggled to maintain the same influence.
His decline in game time left him looking far from the player who had initially arrived with high expectations. This lack of opportunities appears to have contributed to the frustration he has now spoken about.
A chance for renewal
With his loan move to Everton, Grealish has the opportunity to rebuild his confidence and career by gaining consistent minutes on the pitch. He remains under contract with City for another two years, but this spell with the Toffees could prove crucial in reigniting his form.
His schedule with Everton begins to intensify immediately. The team is set to face Mansfield Town on Wednesday in the second round of the Carabao Cup, followed by a Premier League clash with Wolves on Saturday. These fixtures offer Grealish further chances to establish himself as a key figure in Sean Dyche’s side.
