Paul Merson believes Jack Grealish’s move to Everton will boost his 2026 FIFA World Cup chances

The final season before the much-anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup to be staged in the USA-Canada-Mexico in North America kicks off this weekend with players eyeing spots in their respective national teams.

Jack Grealish, who joined Manchester City from Aston Villa in 2021, has sealed a season-long loan move to Everton, where he expects to revive his career.

The 29-year-old is highly rated by the English national team coach, Thomas Tuchel, and all that he needs now is much playing time to convince the tactician to include him in the list for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Former Arsenal footballer Paul Merson has praised Grealish’s decision to sign for David Moyes’ Toffees, describing it as “a win for all parties”.

“It’s a brilliant move for both parties”, Merson said. Manchester City have wanted to get him off their wage bill, and they will be excited to have secured a deal for the English winger. Grealish himself wants a new challenge and is excited now about the possibility of playing every weekend.

“For Grealish, he’s been at Man City for a good few seasons now, and it’s a case of playing teams with everyone behind the ball. Teams have been doubling up on him, and there’s been no space. He now goes to Everton, and he’ll have space. He’ll be one vs one in a lot of games. He’ll get the ball and be able to attack players, commit them and take them on.

“For Everton, they are getting an £100m player on loan. It’s phenomenal for Everton.

“I just think this move ticks a lot of boxes. I think we are going to see the Grealish from his Aston Villa days.

“First things first, Grealish needs to focus on Everton and get going with his new club, but he has given himself a chance with England with this move.

“England have so many players now. It’s phenomenal, but a place in the England squad is in Grealish’s hands. At City, it was out of his hands because he wasn’t playing, but this move gives him a great chance to get back in and get to the World Cup.

“If he performs to the ability he can, Grealish will be on that plane to America to the World Cup.”

The former Aston Villa captain played a crucial role in the 2023-24 season when Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City won the treble.

Everton are expecting Grealish to have a good season and convince him to stay for at least 3 seasons. Manchester City have slapped a 50 million pound prize tag on the winger, who can also play as an attacking midfielder.