Demarai Gray has left Everton for Al-Ettifaq ahead of Thursday’s transfer deadline in the Saudi Pro League.
ADVERTISEMENT
The 27-year-old forward is the latest Premier League player to head to the Gulf nation, joining former Liverpool midfielder Jordan Henderson at the club managed by Steven Gerrard.
Gray’s departure from Goodison Park for an undisclosed fee, reported to be £8 million ($10 million), comes after the deterioration of his relationship with Everton manager Sean Dyche.
The winger aired his grievances on Instagram, saying it was “difficult to play for someone who doesn’t show you respect as a person”.
READ ALSO: Osimhen, Oshoala Bag 2023 Ballon d’Or Nominations
Dyche responded by saying Gray had effectively gone on strike, making clear he did not want to train as he believed he had secured a move away.
The former Leicester player made 75 appearances for Everton, scoring 12 goals, after returning to England from Bayer Leverkusen in 2021.
He has not featured for Everton this season.
The Jamaica international said in a statement that he would be “forever proud” to have played for Everton, who are in the relegation zone after a poor start to the season.
“There has been a lot of speculation about my situation all summer,” he added. “The truth is, I gave my all to this club on and off the pitch through good and bad.
“I was ready to play as much football as possible this season but it felt like this was not going to happen. It’s time for my next chapter. I am match fit and excited to get playing.”
AFP
📌 Editor’s Note: For content partnerships and collaborations, reach out via editor@naija247news.com
Naija247news Media Group LLC is committed to ethical, independent journalism that serves the public interest. Our editorial process prioritizes accuracy, fairness, and transparency in reporting. All content is fact-checked and held to the highest standards of integrity. Learn more in our full editorial policy here.
© 2025 Naija247news Media Group LLC. All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from Naija247news Media Group LLC.
Reporting by Naija247news in Lagos, Nigeria.
