Even if he was still playing here and there under Carlo Ancelotti, it was very clear Morgan Schneiderlin wasn’t part of the Italian’s long-term plans at Everton.
The 30-year-old, who had joined from Manchester United in 2017, failed to make an appearance once the season started post Covid-19 break, and hadn’t played since the 3-2 loss to Arsenal back in February.
Towards the beginning of June, rumours started circulating that Nice in France were taking an avid interest in the defensive midfielder, and a transfer was sorted out later on, seeing Schneiderlin sold for a measly fee of €2m up front with some bonuses.
Speaking to Nice-Matin for his first interview since sealing his return to his home country, the player explained why he chose to leave Goodison Park
He said: “I needed a structured club like OGC Nice. For example, when I joined Everton, it was for Ronald Koeman. After that, there were choices that seemed less in line with what I had been sold”.
However, he is very grateful for the club allowing him to leave so easily this summer.
He continued: “I wanted to already leave last year. It was close to being done, but the club kept me. They told me they really counted on me this season, but would give me an exit pass next summer.
“I told the director of football to shut all other negotiations. I had chosen Nice and wouldn’t go anywhere else. From that moment onwards, they were really classy”.
During his spell with the Toffees, Schneiderlin made 88 appearances, scoring one goal and assisting another two.
