Dominic Calvert-Lewin has confirmed he is leaving Everton after nine years at the club.
The striker, 28, joined Everton in 2016 from Sheffield United and went on to score 71 goals in 274 appearances, becoming a key figure at Goodison Park and earning England recognition along the way.
On Sunday, Calvert-Lewin posted a heartfelt statement on social media, thanking the club and its fans for their support during his time on Merseyside.
In his emotional message to supporters, he suggested that it was his decision, albeit an ‘incredibly difficult’ one, to leave Everton, rather than the club’s.
Calvert-Lewin’s contract expires on Monday.
The message began: ‘To Everton Football Club and the Evertonians. After nine remarkable years at this club, I’ve made the incredibly difficult decision – together with my family – to begin a new chapter in my career.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin will leave Everton after nine years when his contract expires on Monday
‘This isn’t something I chose lightly. Everton has been my home since I was 19 years old. It’s the place that saw potential in me, challenged me to grow, and shaped me both as a footballer and as a man.
‘I want to express my gratitude to all the managers and coaches I’ve worked with over the years, and to my teammates who have become lifelong friends.
‘Above all, I want to speak to you, the fans. Your passion is the beating heart of this club. Whether times were good or tough, your unwavering support never faltered. Celebrating goals at Goodison Park, feeling that roar, is an experience I’ll carry with me forever.
‘This choice to move on was not simply about me – it was a decision my family and I spent a long time considering together. We believe it’s the right moment to seek a new challenge and continue growing, but that doesn’t lessen the bond I’ll always have with Everton.
‘I’m deeply proud of what we’ve shared, fighting for this club when it mattered most, scoring big goals in crucial moments, wearing the shirt with commitment and pride. My hope is that I leave with your respect, knowing I always sought to uphold the values of this great club.
‘Thank you for everything. From my very first day, I always knew what it meant to play for Everton. Up the Toffees.’
Calvert-Lewin was regarded as one of the best strikers in the Premier League when he netted 29 goals across the 2019-20 and 2020-21 campaigns.
He also represented England 11 times between 2020 and 2021, scoring four goals.
But injuries issues, including multiple hamstring tears, have seen his stock fall in recent years.
His final season for the Toffees yielded just three goals in 26 appearances.