Everton excluded Jack Grealish from their squad for the Carabao Cup tie against Newcastle United on 30 October 2026, citing a "breach of club discipline" after the 31-year-old winger failed to attend training on Monday. The decision was announced publicly before the match, which Everton won 3-1 to reach the quarter-finals against League Two side Fleetwood Town.
Background and Return
Grealish, who became Britain's first £100 million footballer when he joined Manchester City from Aston Villa in 2021, rejoined Everton on a permanent deal on transfer deadline day after a previous loan spell was cut short by a serious foot injury. The move was seen as a homecoming for the former England international, who had expressed a strong desire to stay at Goodison Park. However, his form since returning has been underwhelming, with no goals or assists in eight appearances this season, including two for City before his move.
Manager's Stance
Manager David Moyes supported the club's decision, stating it was a club matter and emphasizing the team's values. Moyes and Grealish had developed a close relationship since the manager's arrival in August 2025, but the breach of discipline — coupled with Grealish's absence from the previous match against Arsenal due to reported illness — left the manager with little choice given Everton's thin squad of only 18 senior players.
Past Issues and Character
BBC Sport reports occasional time-keeping issues in Grealish's past, though nothing on this scale. The player has also faced previous disciplinary matters, including a lockdown breach in 2020, careless driving convictions, and being photographed asleep at a rooftop bar while injured. Despite these incidents, Grealish is widely praised for his character, including a £10,000 donation to a fan's cancer treatment fundraiser and his long-standing ambassador role with Special Olympics Great Britain.
Crossroads for Grealish
The incident leaves Grealish at a career crossroads. Everton's victory over Newcastle showcased a more dynamic style with 20-year-old Tyrique George excelling on the left flank, a position Grealish might have occupied. With the club's owners, The Friedkin Group, preparing to sell the club and Moyes operating with limited resources, Grealish must now rebuild trust to avoid a downward spiral from the top level of the Premier League.
