Overview

• Grealish cannot play for Everton against Manchester City on October 18, 2025 or in the return fixture on May 2, 2026 under league regulations.
• The prohibition applies to all domestic league and cup meetings between a loanee and the club that owns their contract.
• Everton’s season-long deal reportedly includes payment of about 75% of Grealish’s wages, estimated near £12 million, with a £50 million purchase option at season’s end.
• The rule contrasts with many other leagues where eligibility is set by contract terms rather than a universal restriction.
• Opinion columns in the UK press argue Grealish’s enforced absence undermines competitive integrity, highlighting wider criticism of the loan system.