Everton braced for long Grealish absence
Everton manager David Moyes has conceded Jack Grealish is unlikely to feature again this season, with the on-loan winger facing the possibility of surgery on a fractured foot.
Grealish, 30, has been a key figure in Moyes’ set-up since arriving from Manchester City, but Everton’s hopes of a late-season return have faded sharply after further assessments indicated the injury may require an operation. Moyes confirmed a final call will be made in consultation with City and medical specialists, yet admitted he is planning for the run-in without one of his most influential attackers.
“Jack’s situation doesn’t look good in terms of us seeing him again this season,” Moyes indicated, acknowledging the club’s concerns have effectively been realised. With Everton still pushing to finish the campaign strongly, the timing is a blow: Grealish’s ball-carrying and chance creation have provided a rare attacking spark during a period in which Moyes has leaned heavily on structure and efficiency.
England ambition hit by major setback
The update also casts serious doubt over Grealish’s prospects of forcing his way into England’s World Cup plans. While there had been outside optimism that a swift recovery could keep him in contention, a fractured foot — and the prospect of surgery — significantly reduces the chances of meaningful football before squad decisions are made.
For Grealish, the setback is particularly frustrating given his move to Merseyside was designed to deliver consistent minutes and rebuild momentum. Any prolonged lay-off risks disrupting that progress and complicating his efforts to re-establish himself at the highest level.
What it means for Everton and City
Everton now face the practical challenge of replacing a player who has often been the side’s primary source of creativity between the lines. Moyes is expected to look to alternatives in wide areas and may tweak his approach to compensate for the loss of progressive dribbling and final-third invention that Grealish offers.
From Manchester City’s perspective, the immediate priority will be ensuring the best medical route for their player, even if that means surgery and a longer rehabilitation timeline. Grealish’s loan agreement at Everton includes a reported £50m option to buy, but the uncertainty around his recovery adds a layer of complexity to any end-of-season decision-making.
Moyes, for now, is focused on what he can control: navigating Everton’s remaining fixtures without a marquee attacker and attempting to maintain momentum despite a setback that has landed at the worst possible moment.
