Neal Maupay’s departure from Everton has been confirmed after the striker compared the Premier League club to a prison. The Frenchman, known for his controversial behavior, has joined Marseille on loan with an obligation to buy for £3 million next summer.
Maupay’s exit was announced by Everton in a blunt statement, expressing their disappointment with his recent actions. The club stated, “Neal Maupay has left Everton to join Olympique de Marseille on loan for 2024/25, with the French club having an obligation to buy the forward at the end of the season.”
During his time at Everton, Maupay struggled to find the back of the net, scoring just one goal in 29 appearances in his first season. As a result, he was sent out on loan to Brentford last season, where he had a more successful spell, netting eight times in 31 games.
However, it is not Maupay’s on-field performances that have garnered the most attention. The striker has become known for his controversial antics and clashes with other players. In January, he clashed with Tottenham’s James Maddison over a darts celebration, and the following month, he found himself in a heated feud with Kyle Walker. In July, Maupay took a dig at the England team moments after their Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain.
Maupay’s behavior on social media has also raised eyebrows. Before his transfer to Marseille was confirmed, he shared a clip from the film “The Shawshank Redemption,” depicting a prison escape. This post, along with his previous controversies, may have contributed to Everton’s decision to part ways with the striker.
Joining Marseille, Maupay follows in the footsteps of Premier League players Mason Greenwood and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, who have also made the move to Roberto De Zerbi’s team. While Maupay’s performances on the pitch have often been overshadowed by his off-field antics, Marseille will be hoping that he can channel his focus and contribute positively to the team.
Ultimately, Maupay’s time at Everton has come to an end due to his controversial behavior and lack of goals. The Frenchman now has an opportunity at Marseille to prove his worth and leave a lasting impact on the pitch rather than through his antics.