Richarlison posts emotional message amid links with return to ‘beloved’ Everton

Spurs entered talks with Everton on Sunday night over the proposed transfer of Toffees’ attacker Iliman Ndiaye, the Press Association understands, and separate discussions occurred over Richarlison going back to his old club.

Tottenham boss Roberto De Zerbi claimed on Saturday night that Richarlison had been left out of the matchday squad for the 2-0 home loss to Newcastle because “too many times he asked to leave”, but the Brazil forward has seemingly responded in a story on his Instagram page.

“After everything I’ve been through in the last few years, I’ve decided that never again will anyone decide my future for me,” Richarlison said on Instagram.

“I went through a lot of bad things, and almost all of them happened because decisions were made by other people. Pressure, threats, retaliation – none of that scares me. I’ve been through far worse, believe me.

“I’ve always made it clear, every time I had the chance, that leaving for another club would only happen if it was also good for the club. If it wasn’t, I would never accept it. Just like I didn’t accept it when everything was going badly and they needed me.

“I stayed and gave everything. So, I hope they treat my situation with the same respect I’ve always shown Spurs and everyone who worked with me during this period. Just don’t try to decide for me.

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“If they reach an agreement between Spurs and Everton, I will return to my beloved club. My intention was to go back to the place where I was very happy, yes, but the negotiations happened only in the way certain people wanted, and it will no longer be like that.

“Despite all this turmoil, I am under contract at Spurs and will remain at the club’s disposal.”

Richarlison, who has been candid in the past about his mental health struggles, scored 12 goals during the 2025-26 campaign to help keep Tottenham in the Premier League.