Credit: Imago / Manh Tung, Breaking Media

Harri Burton

Tue 19 August 2025 17:05, UK

Jack Grealish wrote a heartwarming message to the Everton faithful after tasting defeat against Leeds United at Elland Road.

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On loan from Man City, supporters from both sets of teams were interested to see the winger enter the field on Monday, 18 August, but they were forced to wait until the 71st minute to do so.

James Tarkowski‘s handball inside the Everton penalty area was the biggest talking point of the game, with Lukas Nmecha scoring the only goal from a spot-kick in a 1-0 win for Daniel Farke’s side.

Tim Iroegbunam was “lucky” to remain on the pitch, or so former PGMOL boss Keith Hackett believed, as the Toffees eventually conceded the late goal, much to the delight of newly promoted Leeds fans.

The Whites’ opening-match victory was certainly overshadowed, as was Grealish’s debut for David Moyes‘ side, but the loanee is clearly excited to get the Toffees’ first points on the board this season.

Taking to Instagram stories (18 August), Grealish wrote: “Unfortunate result tonight, but so proud to make my debut for this great club!” after coming on in the 71st minute at Elland Road.

He continued: “Can’t wait for Sunday,” as the Toffees welcome Brighton to the Hill Dickinson Stadium.

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Last season, the 29-year-old started just seven Premier League appearances under Pep Guardiola, prompting fans to suggest a falling-out between the two, but the winger has now found a new home.

Credit: Instagram

Football Insider verdict

Moyes was far from satisfied after full-time, revealing that he spoke with the officials after the game, but nothing can help the Toffees now to keep a point from what was about to be a deadlock draw.

The visitors were far from their best, creating just a handful of chances while the Whites kept them pinned inside their own half for the majority of the game.

However, it is far too soon for supporters to become concerned.

The Toffees went on an incredible run of results under Moyes last season, who led the team away from danger after replacing Sean Dyche.

David Moyes’ 2024/25 season at Everton.

(Credit: Imago)

Moyes and Grealish will turn their attention to Brighton, welcoming the Seagulls to the Hill Dickinson Stadium on Sunday, 24 August, in what could be an incredible atmosphere.

It is no wonder that the winger is already looking forward to the club’s first home game of the 2025/26 campaign, but losing their opener to Leeds will have knocked some of the wind out of their sails.

Missing the likes of Jarrad Branthwaite and Vitaliy Mykolenko are also major blows for the Toffees, so once they return to full fitness, Moyes’ side should get back to winning ways.

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