Phil Neville reacts as player waves goodbye after confirmed Everton exit news
Phil Neville and Dwight McNeil have paid tribute to Andre Gomes after the Everton midfielder said his goodbyes via social media on Friday (7 June).
The club confirmed [17 May] that the 30-year-old Portuguese player will leave Goodison Park upon the expiration of his contract at the end of June, having experienced a mixed career on Merseyside.
Gomes took to Instagram to share a heartfelt video after the news was confirmed, with several current and former players and passionate fans streaming over to thank the player for his services.
Reacting to the post on Instagram on Friday (7 June), Neville replied with blue heart emojis, while teammate McNeil wrote: “Some man, some player.”
Andre Gomes says Everton goodbyes
It is fair to say that Gomes’ time on Merseyside was not perfect, having suffered several injuries since arriving from Barcelona, initially on a loan spell in 2018 before making the move permanent in 2019.
Despite this, the midfielder was a much-loved and valued figure among the Goodison Park faithful, always being greeted by a cheer whenever stepping foot on the pitch.
Having only started three Premier League matches this season, mainly due to more injury problems, it comes as no surprise to see the player and the club part ways this summer.
Nonetheless, it is an emotional farewell for Gomes, who has made his home at the club over several years, and the fans clearly share the same feeling as his spell comes to a close.
Gomes is an extremely talented midfielder, whether that be retaining the ball in midfield or shooting from range, but injuries have hindered his progression at Everton.
He has already been linked with a move to the MLS this summer upon the expiration of his contract, but given his talent on the football pitch, it will be exciting to see where he goes next.
In other Everton news, an interested party has been slammed for his “ridiculous” request to the Premier League.
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