Everton midfielder Idrissa Gueye has admitted that a return to Everton was his only thought when leaving PSG and that returning to Goodison Park was “like coming home.”
The 33-year-old sealed a return to Merseyside from Paris on deadline day of the summer transfer window and has proven himself an indispensable part of Frank Lampard’s midfield this season.
He returned to The Toffees having won six trophies in the French capital and having played a crucial part in Senegal’s first-ever Africa Cup of Nations victory in 2021.
The midfielder admitted in an interview with Everton’s official club website that he watched every one of the club’s matches during their relegation fight last season – even while playing at PSG – and was left especially emotional after the side’s 3-2 comeback win against Crystal Palace.
On his return to the club, Gueye said: “I’m very, very happy to have another opportunity to give my all for this club, I spent three years here and once you are a blue, you are always a blue.
“How can I explain? It’s in my heart and it’s a feeling that will not leave. This club is part of me. It’s hard to find the words but coming back here, the sensation I had was that – like coming home.
“I had a good period in PSG and I was only ever going to leave for Everton.
“The reaction I’ve had from the Evertonians has made me very, very proud. They just confirmed to me — not that I had any doubts whatsoever — that I made the right decision to come back here.
“They’ve shown me that I’m part of this family.”
Workhorse
Gueye has quickly become a fan-favourite at Goodison Park following his return from Paris in the summer, giving his all for the team on a weekly basis.
Strong in a tackle, a constant workhorse in the middle of the park and proving himself adept in forward positions for Senegal during the World Cup highlight what a smart piece of business it was bringing Gueye back to the club.
For the early parts of the season, the 32-year-old and Amadou Onana struck up a fearsome partnership in The Toffees midfield – adding some real bite and passion to Everton’s performances.
His experience has and will prove vital to the development of Onana – who is still a little rough around the edges – and his years in Paris mean he has returned with a winning mentality.
Even if Lampard only gets a year or two out of the Senegalese international before his legs start to tire, it will be money well spent.
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