Marcus Rashford and Kalvin Phillips React to Dominic Calvert-Lewin's Announcement at Leeds

Leeds United have secured a major coup by signing England striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin on a three-year contract as a free agent after his departure from Everton.[1][2] The 28-year-old, who joined Leeds following their promotion to the Premier League, expressed immense excitement about the move, likening it to his "first day at school" and praising the club's passionate fans at Elland Road.[1]

Calvert-Lewin, who scored 71 goals in 274 appearances for Everton, turned down a reduced-term contract offer to seek a new challenge despite injury setbacks that sidelined him for 529 days since 2021-22.[1][2] He highlighted productive talks with manager Daniel Farke, a former centre-forward, and the team's attractive setup as key factors in his decision.[1]

Marcus Rashford, the Manchester United forward and England teammate, reacted enthusiastically on social media, posting: "Big move Dom! Elland Road will love you. Can't wait to see you boss it for Leeds. 🦁 #UTC."[1] Similarly, Kalvin Phillips, the Leeds United legend now at Manchester City, shared his delight: "Welcome to the best club in the world, DCL! Proper striker for our squad. Let's go Whites! 🤍."[1] Both reactions underscore the excitement among England internationals for Calvert-Lewin's arrival.

Since joining on August 15, 2025, Calvert-Lewin has revitalized his career under Farke, scoring in four consecutive matches—including wins over Chelsea and draws against Liverpool and Brentford—after a tactical shift to a 3-5-2 formation.[2][3] This form earned him the prestigious December 2025 Player of the Month award, the first for a Leeds player since Rio Ferdinand.[4] Leeds face Everton in their opener, adding intrigue to his homecoming.[1]

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