Man City's Grealish Heads to Everton on Loan

Everton have secured a season-long loan deal for Manchester City winger Jack Grealish, marking a significant move in the summer transfer window. The 29-year-old England international has seen his playing time diminish at City, being excluded from key matches including last season's Premier League finale and the Club World Cup.

Transfer Details and Career Context

According to BBC Sport sources, the clubs have finalized the loan agreement, with Grealish set to undergo a medical imminently. The playmaker, who reportedly earns £300,000 per weekat City, joined the club in August 2021 for a then-British record £100m fee from Aston Villa.

During his time at Etihad Stadium, Grealish made over 150 appearances, contributing to three Premier League titles, a Champions League triumph, and an FA Cup victory. However, his role significantly decreased last season with just seven league starts as City ended the campaign without silverware.

Why the Move Makes Sense

While Grealish initially sought a permanent transfer and Champions League football, the loan to Everton offers:

• A chance to revive his career with regular first-team football
• An opportunity to impress England manager Gareth Southgate ahead of World Cup selection
• The platform to be a marquee player at Everton's new Hill Dickinson Stadium

Grealish's Declining Influence at City

BBC Sport's Noel Sliney analyzes:

The past two seasons have seen a dramatic decline for Grealish since his pivotal role in City's 2022-23 Treble-winning campaign. Last season particularly highlighted his reduced importance:

• Featured in just 30% of available minutes
• Recorded more yellow cards (7) than goal contributions (6)
• Made only 16 starts - his fewest since age 20

City's system has limited Grealish's trademark dribbling ability, a stark contrast to his free-roaming role at Aston Villa where he served as captain and talisman.

What's Next for Grealish?

The move to Everton presents both challenges and opportunities:

• Must adapt to increased playing time after limited minutes
• Needs to rediscover his creative spark to boost Everton's attack
• Has a chance to prove he still belongs at international level

With England manager Thomas Tuchel showing willingness to select out-of-favor club players, Grealish's performances at Everton could determine his World Cup prospects. The coming season represents a crucial crossroads in the 29-year-old's career.