Jean-Philippe Gbamin made a high-profile move from Mainz 05 to Everton for approximately €28m during the summer 2019 transfer window, signing a five-year contract with the Toffees, indicating his expected tenure until the current season’s end. However, the 28-year-old defensive midfielder now finds himself playing for Dunkerque in France’s Ligue 2, aiming to rejuvenate his career following a disappointing stint at Everton, showing his willingness to drop down levels to do so.
Described as a ‘phoenix’ by FootMercato, Gbamin is depicted as making strides toward a comeback to higher levels of football. His decision to join Dunkerque was motivated by the desire to regain match fitness and rhythm while remaining close to his family. Despite committing to them for the current season only, interest in a summer move, including from Bundesliga and Ligue 1 clubs, is already emerging.
In light of Gbamin’s underwhelming tenure at Everton, FootMercato suggests that some responsibility for the transfer’s failure should be attributed to the Toffees. They claim that the club’s decision to field him without adequate physical preparation upon his arrival contributed to his subsequent fragility, despite his injury-free history during his time at Mainz.
Reflecting on his decision to terminate his contract with Everton last summer and forgo the final year of his deal, Gbamin expressed relief at returning to France. He emphasized the importance of finding a supportive environment where he could feel valued and assured of regular playing time, expressing his reluctance to return to Everton by canceling his contract with them.