Sport nationRoss Barkley, now an Aston Villa player, will bracing himself for a hostile reception from Everton fans when he faces his former club for the first time since leaving Chelsea. Barkley joined Everton at the age of 11 and went on to make over 150 senior appearances for his boyhood club before joining Chelsea in January 2018. He then made a move to Aston Villa in 2023.
Barkley’s departure from Everton was met with frustration from Toffees fans, who felt he had left the club in an unfair manner. The midfielder refused to sign a new deal and entered the final six months of his contract, allowing Chelsea to secure a cut-price move.
“I don’t think it will be the best,” Barkley told Sky Sports when asked about what reception he would get from Everton fans. “There might be a few who might say a few good things.”
Barkley acknowledges that his departure from Everton may have left a sour taste in the mouths of some fans, but he is excited to face his former club and team-mates. “I achieved my dream of playing for Everton, from a young age I always dreamed of scoring for Everton. In my living room I always used to tell my mum ‘one day I’ll score for Everton’ and when that happened it was unbelievable for me.”
Despite his excitement, Barkley admits that he may still feel some nerves when facing Everton. “On the day I might get a few nerves as it will feel a bit strange. I’m looking forward to catching up with some of the staff there who I used to get on really well with.”
Barkley’s move to Aston Villa has given him a fresh start, but he knows that facing Everton will always be a special occasion. “Coming to Villa was a big challenge for me,” he said. “I felt like I needed a new start and a fresh challenge. I’m excited to see how the season goes.”
The midfielder has also spoken about his personal growth and maturity, both on and off the field. “I’ve had to push myself and I’ve really matured,” he said. “I’ve learned from my experiences and I’m excited for the future.”
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