Richarlison has publicly pushed back against reports suggesting he forced his way toward an Everton return, using an Instagram statement on transfer deadline day to insist that the direction of his career remains his decision alone, not that of clubs, agents, or intermediaries involved in the stalled deal.
The Brazil international’s intervention comes amid a turbulent 48 hours in which a proposed deadline-day move to his former club appeared close to completion before talks broke down. Reports had linked the transfer to a separate arrangement that would send Everton winger Iliman Ndiaye to Tottenham in the opposite direction.
In a lengthy post, Richarlison said the difficulties of recent years had hardened his resolve never to let others dictate his career path again, describing pressure and setbacks he said he had already overcome.
He maintained he had always been open to a move only if it also suited his current club, and said he hoped his situation would be handled with the same respect he felt he had shown Tottenham throughout his spell in north London.
If they reach an agreement between Spurs and Everton, I will return to my beloved club.” Richarlison, via Instagram
The 29-year-old, who left Everton for Tottenham in a club-record deal in 2022, said his intention had been to return to a place where he had once been happy, but that the negotiations had instead been shaped by the demands of parties he did not name, a dynamic he said would no longer be tolerated. He added that, despite the ongoing uncertainty, he remained contracted to Spurs and available for selection.
Manager’s Comments Add to the Noise
The statement followed comments from Tottenham head coach Roberto De Zerbi, who suggested over the weekend that Richarlison’s repeated requests to leave the club had factored into his omission from the matchday squad for the defeat by Newcastle United.
Richarlison’s post appeared to directly contest that framing of events, presenting his position instead as one of a player resisting outside pressure rather than actively forcing an exit.
Key Details
Everton and Tottenham held deadline-day talks over a proposed Richarlison return.
A separate deal for Everton’s Iliman Ndiaye to join Spurs was reportedly linked to the move.
Richarlison joined Tottenham from Everton in a club-record transfer in 2022.
He scored 12 goals for Spurs during the 2025-26 Premier League season.
Richarlison remains under contract at Tottenham as talks continue.