Everton allowed André Gomes to complete a loan move to Lille on deadline day of the 2022 summer window.
The midfielder struggled to have prominence at the Merseyside club last season and was restricted to only 19 games, out of which 14 were in the league.
Frank Lampard, who was in charge at Everton in the second half of last season, didn’t rely upon the 29-year-old and the latter was forced to spend time on the bench. His situation has improved this season, and he’s scored three goals and registered two assists from 24 league games.
The Ligue 1’s official website interviewed the player, during which he was asked if he’s enjoying life in Ligue 1 after a difficult last season at Everton. When responding to this, Gomes explained why he decided to join the French club last summer.
“I’m really enjoying this season in France. There is a very good atmosphere in this team. This arrival took place on the last day of the transfer window and even in the very last minutes. I think in the last 5 minutes before closing! I needed change and a new challenge to prove to myself that I was still capable,” he said.
“And Lille opened its doors to me. Coach Paulo Fonseca was important in this choice, as were former teammates, such as José Fonte, for example. This allowed me to quickly get here.
“With Paulo Fonseca, we share the same vision of football. The confidence he gave me by giving me minutes of play was decisive. It allowed me to prove myself again and feel comfortable. To no longer feel upset because I was on the bench.”
Lille don’t have an option to make Gomes’ stay permanent, meaning he would have to return to Everton after this season. His deal there expires in 2024 and both the midfielder and the Premier League side must take a decision on his future in the summer.
