Will Richarlison Return to Everton? Son's Statue Dream and the Brazilian's Crossroads

Son’s Statue: A Legend Immortalized?

Tottenham fans are no longer just dreaming—they’re demanding. After Son Heung-min led Spurs to their first major trophy in 17 years by lifting the 2025 UEFA Europa League, calls for a permanent tribute have reached a fever pitch. The club’s CEO, Vinai Venkatesham, confirmed that plans are underway to erect statues honoring club legends, with fans set to choose the first honoree. Son, who scored 173 goals and made 454 appearances over a decade, is the overwhelming favorite. His legacy includes being the first Asian Premier League Golden Boot winner and a symbol of loyalty, staying through rebuilding years. Even Richarlison, his former teammate, fueled the movement by sharing an AI-generated image of a Son statue with the caption “Spurs, please.” Fan forums and social media are flooded with messages like “He is the heart of this club” and “Build it now—history demands it.” With the Bill Nicholson Gate already restored, the stage is set for Son to become a physical presence outside the stadium, forever smiling down on those who loved him most.

Richarlison’s Rocky Road at Spurs

While Son’s legacy is being carved in stone, Richarlison’s future at Tottenham hangs in the balance. Signed for £60 million from Everton in 2022, the Brazilian was expected to be a game-changer. Instead, injuries and inconsistent form have limited his impact—he’s managed just 3 goals and 1 assist in 7 Premier League appearances this season. Once a fan favorite at Goodison Park with 53 goals in 152 games, Richarlison now finds himself on the fringes of Ange Postecoglou’s squad. Despite his passion and work rate—praised even by critics—Spurs are reportedly open to offers, with Everton emerging as a potential suitor. A loan deal with an obligation to buy is seen as the most realistic path, given Tottenham’s need to balance the books and Everton’s financial constraints. While some fans sympathize with his struggles, others argue it’s time to move on, especially with new strikers on the horizon. The narrative has shifted: from “savior” to “surplus,” and now, perhaps, to “prodigal son returning home.”

Everton’s Tempting, Troubled Reunion

Could Richarlison’s story come full circle? Everton, under David Moyes, are in need of attacking firepower as they battle to avoid relegation. With Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Beto underperforming, the idea of re-signing a player who once lit up Goodison Park is tempting. Moyes, a long-time admirer, has reportedly prioritized the search for a striker. However, the path back isn’t smooth. Moyes publicly denied interest in May 2025, and Everton’s financial situation—still recovering from a takeover delay—limits their spending. A £40 million price tag from Spurs is far beyond their reach, making a loan move more plausible. Yet, the emotional connection remains strong. Richarlison once vowed to “make history” at Everton and become an “idol.” Fans still chant his name, and his social media interactions with Toffees supporters suggest a bond that never truly broke. If a deal materializes in January 2026, it won’t just be a transfer—it’ll be a homecoming, wrapped in nostalgia and hope.

Friendship Beyond the Pitch

Amid the transfer rumors, one constant stands out: the deep friendship between Son and Richarlison. Their bond, forged in the heat of North London, was on full display during South Korea’s 5-0 loss to Brazil in October 2025. Before kickoff, Son ran to embrace his former teammate, and after the match, Richarlison was seen playfully tugging at Son’s jacket, drawing smiles from fans. Richarlison once sent a heartfelt message to Son after their World Cup clash: “I how hard fought to here, that's you're hero to people @Sonny7!”—a touching, if grammatically imperfect, tribute. This camaraderie transcends club rivalries and national pride. As Son begins a new chapter in MLS with LAFC, and Richarlison faces a pivotal career decision, their mutual respect remains a beacon of sportsmanship. Whether Richarlison returns to Everton or not, one thing is certain: the legacy of Son will be immortalized in Tottenham, and the spirit of their friendship will endure far beyond the pitch.