Jack Grealish Confirms Season-Ending Injury as Surgery Ends World Cup Hopes

Everton midfielder Jack Grealish has confirmed he will miss the remainder of the season after undergoing surgery on a stress fracture in his foot, dealing a significant blow to both his club campaign and international ambitions.

The 30-year-old, who joined Everton on loan from Manchester City during the summer transfer window, has quickly established himself as a fan favourite following a series of influential performances in the Premier League.

Grealish shared the news on Instagram, posting a photo from his hospital bed and confirming that his season has been cut short. While expressing his disappointment, the midfielder remained optimistic about his recovery.

“I didn’t want the season to end like this, but that’s football — gutted,” Grealish 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.

“The support I’ve had since coming to this unbelievable club has meant the world to me. The staff, my team-mates 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. UTFT.”

Messages of support quickly followed from both current and former team-mates. Manchester City striker Erling Haaland responded with blue heart emojis and a prayer symbol, while fellow Everton summer signing Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall commented: “Back soon,” alongside a blue heart. England team-mate James Maddison, who is also sidelined through injury, posted three white heart emojis in support.

The injury has also cast uncertainty over Grealish’s long-term future. Everton reportedly hold a £50 million option to make the move permanent this summer, although it remains unclear whether the club will activate the clause given the severity of the injury and the recovery period involved.

Earlier in the season, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola spoke about Grealish’s situation, emphasising the importance of the player returning to full fitness.

“I think he has a contract for one more year with us,” Guardiola said. “The important thing is that he is back.

“He is a massive influence in the Everton games. After what’s happened, maybe Manchester City want him back, but I don’t know. Many things are still going to happen. We’ll see.

“The important thing is he is playing again, getting a lot of minutes. This is the standard. I’m happy, really, honestly, that he’s back in, trying his best.”

Beyond the implications for his club career, the surgery is also expected to end any realistic hopes of Grealish being included in England’s squad for this summer’s World Cup, even if he manages to return to action before the tournament.

His form at Everton had previously sparked discussion about a possible international recall. Grealish’s most recent appearance for the Three Lions came in October 2024 under caretaker manager Lee Carsley.