In a stunning revelation that will send shockwaves through Goodison Park, former Everton defender Joleon Lescott has brutally admitted that his controversial £22 million departure to Manchester City was ultimately 'the right move for everyone'.
The explosive comments came during an appearance on the Rising Ballers podcast alongside former teammate Joseph Yobo, where Lescott pulled no punches about the internal workings of the club during his tenure.
'A Business, Not a Team'
Lescott's most damning assessment came when discussing the club's philosophy at the time. 'We were a business, not a team, not a club, we were a business,' he stated bluntly, suggesting profit often took precedence over sporting ambition.
This business-first approach was perfectly exemplified by his own transfer saga. Lescott revealed the club's hierarchy saw his sale as an opportunity too good to refuse. 'The club were like, we've been offered this for you, we can't turn it down.'
The £22 Million Tipping Point
The England international detailed how his relationship with then-manager David Moyes became irreparably damaged during the protracted transfer negotiations with Manchester City in 2009.
'I think the turning point was when I got told I couldn't leave,' Lescott explained. 'I was like, well, I understand that you don't want me to leave, but if someone's offering that amount of money for me, then it's just good business.'
His frustration was palpable as he described the club's refusal to sanction the move initially, despite the staggering fee on offer—a British record for a defender at the time.
No Regrets: Silverware and Success
While his exit angered many Everton fans who saw him as a key part of their defence, Lescott has no doubts he made the correct career decision.
The move to the Etihad Stadium proved immensely successful, with Lescott securing multiple Premier League titles, an FA Cup, and a League Cup during his time with Manchester City—honours that likely would have eluded him had he remained on Merseyside.
His candid confession provides a fascinating glimpse into the often brutal financial realities of modern football, where even key players can become assets to be traded for the right price.
