Jack Grealish’s journey at Everton has come to an abrupt, heart-wrenching halt. The 30-year-old midfielder, who joined the Toffees on a season-long loan from Manchester City in August 2025, confirmed on February 9, 2026, that his campaign is over after undergoing surgery for a foot stress fracture. The injury, suffered on January 18 during a gritty 1-0 win over his former club Aston Villa, means Grealish will not only miss the rest of Everton’s season but also any hope of a recall to the England squad for this summer’s World Cup.
Grealish’s time on Merseyside has been nothing short of transformative for both player and club. Arriving after a frustrating spell with Manchester City—where he had fallen out of favor, making only seven league starts the previous season and missing out on the Club World Cup squad—the midfielder quickly became the heartbeat of David Moyes’ Everton side. In 22 appearances across all competitions, Grealish found the net twice and registered six assists, often providing the creative spark and leadership that Everton so desperately needed.
His influence was perhaps best summed up by his Premier League tally: two vital goals and six assists, numbers that highlight his knack for unlocking defenses and setting the tempo in midfield. Fans and pundits alike began to whisper about a possible England recall, especially given his recent form and the lack of creative options in the national setup. But fate had other plans.
The injury, a stress fracture in his foot, cut short what many hoped would be a fairytale resurgence. Everton manager David Moyes, who had previously expressed concerns about the severity of Grealish’s knock, saw his worst fears confirmed when surgery became necessary. Moyes had every reason to worry: Grealish’s absence leaves a gaping hole in Everton’s midfield just as the club faces a crucial stretch in the Premier League.
Grealish himself took to social media to break the news, offering a raw and heartfelt message to supporters. “Didn’t want the season to end like this but that’s football, gutted,” he wrote. “Surgery done and now all focus on getting back fit. I know for sure I will come back fitter, stronger and better than before.”
For Grealish, the timing couldn’t be worse. His run of form at Everton had reignited talk of a spot in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for the 2026 World Cup, set to take place in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. His most recent appearance for the Three Lions came under caretaker manager Lee Carsley back in October 2024, and while his inclusion was considered an outside chance, the door is now firmly closed for this summer’s tournament.
“The support I’ve had since coming to this unbelievable club has meant the world to me,” Grealish continued in his post. “The staff, my teammates and especially the fans have been incredible and I absolutely love representing this club. I’ll be backing the lads all the way and doing everything I can to get back as soon as possible. Thank you again for all the love, it means so much.”
It’s a bitter blow not only for Grealish but for Everton fans who had quickly embraced him as one of their own. His arrival was seen as something of a coup after a difficult year at Manchester City. Grealish had joined City from Aston Villa in 2021 for a then British record £100 million, going on to win three Premier League titles, the Champions League, and the FA Cup. But as City’s squad evolved, Grealish found himself on the fringes, his trademark runs and creativity often left unused on the bench.
The move to Everton was meant to be a fresh start, and for a time, it certainly looked like one. Under Moyes’ stewardship, Grealish was given the freedom to express himself, and Everton reaped the benefits. His performances frequently drew plaudits, with many pointing to his ability to lift those around him and his growing connection with the Goodison Park faithful.
“He’s been a real talisman for us,” Moyes remarked earlier in the season, highlighting Grealish’s impact both on and off the pitch. The midfielder’s leadership and experience—honed at the highest levels with City—proved invaluable to a club aiming to reestablish itself among England’s elite.
But football can be cruel. The stress fracture, sustained in a hard-fought victory over Aston Villa, not only robbed Everton of their creative engine but also dashed Grealish’s hopes of a World Cup swansong. The injury required immediate attention, and while the surgery was deemed successful, the recovery timeline means there’s no chance of a return before the season’s end.
For England, the news is a setback as well. With Gareth Southgate having departed and Thomas Tuchel now at the helm, the national team faces a period of transition. Grealish’s experience and flair would have been a welcome addition to a squad looking to make its mark on the world stage. Instead, Tuchel will be forced to look elsewhere for inspiration.
Grealish’s story is a reminder of the unpredictable nature of football. One moment, a player can be riding high, the next, sidelined by injury and forced to watch from afar. Yet, if his words are any indication, Grealish remains as determined as ever. “I know for sure I will come back fitter, stronger and better than before,” he assured fans, signaling his intent to return to the game he loves with renewed vigor.
Everton, meanwhile, face the daunting task of filling the void left by their star loanee. Moyes will have to rely on the depth of his squad and perhaps look to younger players to step up in Grealish’s absence. The Toffees’ ambitions for the remainder of the season now hang in the balance, with supporters hoping that the team can rally and honor Grealish’s contributions by finishing strong.
As the Premier League season rolls on and the World Cup draws near, all eyes will be on Grealish’s recovery. Everton fans, England supporters, and neutrals alike will be wishing him well, eager to see one of the game’s most charismatic talents back on the pitch. For now, Grealish’s focus is on healing, but if his past is any guide, don’t count him out just yet. The comeback trail starts here—and you can bet he’ll be ready to make headlines again when the time comes.