Richarlison has left the door open for an emotional return to Everton, but warned that “never again will anyone decide my future for me” in what appeared to be a pointed message on social media.

Spurs opened talks with Everton on Sunday night regarding a proposed move for Toffees forward Iliman Ndiaye, and separate discussions also took place over Richarlison returning to his former club, before Manchester City completed a deal to sign the Senegal star.

Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi said on Saturday night that Richarlison had been omitted from the matchday squad for the 2-0 home defeat to Newcastle because “too many times he asked to leave”, but the Brazil striker appeared to answer those comments in a statement posted on his Instagram story.

“After everything I’ve been through in the last few years, I’ve decided that never again will anyone decide my future for me,” Richarlison said.

“I went through a lot of bad things, and almost all of them happened because decisions were made by other people. Pressure, threats, retaliation – none of that scares me. I’ve been through far worse, believe me.

“I’ve always made it clear, every time I had the chance, that leaving for another club would only happen if it was also good for the club. If it wasn’t, I would never accept it. Just like I didn’t accept it when everything was going badly and they needed me.

“I stayed and gave everything. So, I hope they treat my situation with the same respect I’ve always shown Spurs and everyone who worked with me during this period. Just don’t try to decide for me.

“If they reach an agreement between Spurs and Everton, I will return to my beloved club. My intention was to go back to the place where I was very happy, yes, but the negotiations happened only in the way certain people wanted, and it will no longer be like that.

“Despite all this turmoil, I am under contract at Spurs and will remain at the club’s disposal.”

Richarlison, who has previously spoken openly about his mental health struggles, scored 12 goals during the 2025-26 season as Tottenham avoided relegation from the Premier League.