‘I Am the Villain’: Richarlison Breaks Silence as Tottenham Exit Draws Closer

Richarlison has delivered a cryptic message amid his impending Tottenham departure, declaring himself the “villain” in a post that has immediately sparked speculation over his difficult spell in north London.

The Brazilian forward appears to be closing the door on his Tottenham career, with an agreement reportedly reached in principle for him to return to Everton before the transfer window closes.

But it was Richarlison's social-media activity that caught the attention of supporters.

‘I am the villain’

Richarlison posted a photograph of himself from a previous Tottenham match before following it with a striking message.

The second image contained the words:

“I am the villain of many poorly told stories.”

He accompanied the post with a thinking emoji, while comments were reportedly switched off.

The message has inevitably raised questions over whether Richarlison was addressing the criticism he has received during his Tottenham career or offering his own perspective on how his time at the club has been portrayed.

De Zerbi confirms Richarlison wanted out

The post came shortly after Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi publicly confirmed that Richarlison had repeatedly expressed his desire to leave.

The Brazilian was left out of Tottenham's squad for their 2-0 defeat to Newcastle United, with De Zerbi explaining that Richarlison had asked to depart.

De Zerbi also revealed that Kevin Danso and Pape Matar Sarr had expressed similar wishes, adding to the uncertainty surrounding his Tottenham squad.

The manager insisted that he maintains good relationships with the players but stressed that departures would require financially viable solutions for the club.

Everton reunion on the cards

Richarlison's next destination appears increasingly clear.

Everton are reportedly set to bring the Brazilian back to Goodison Park in a deal worth around £35 million, with the move forming part of a wider transfer relationship between the two clubs.

Richarlison enjoyed his most productive spell in England with Everton, scoring 43 goals in 135 appearances before leaving for Tottenham in 2022.

A return would therefore represent a major full-circle moment for the 29-year-old.

A complicated Tottenham chapter

Richarlison joined Spurs from Everton for around £60 million in 2022 but struggled to consistently reproduce the form that made him one of the Premier League's most dangerous forwards.

He leaves Tottenham having scored 32 goals and provided 15 assists in all competitions, while also being part of the squad that won the Europa League in 2025.

His Tottenham career was repeatedly interrupted by injuries and inconsistent form, while his relationship with the club's hierarchy has come under greater scrutiny in recent weeks.

The arrival of new attacking options, including Omar Marmoush, has also increased competition for places

The end of an uncomfortable chapter

Richarlison's message may never receive a direct explanation, but its timing is difficult to ignore.

After repeatedly asking to leave, being omitted from the squad and now moving closer to an Everton return, the Brazilian appears ready to move on.

Whether his “villain” message was aimed at critics, the media or those who have judged his Tottenham career remains unclear.

What is clear is that Richarlison's Spurs chapter is approaching its final pages — and his next one could take him back to where his Premier League story truly flourished.

Transfer Status

Richarlison → Everton

💰 Reported fee: Around £35m

🔵 Current club: Tottenham

🔵 Destination: Everton

📄 Agreement: Reportedly reached in principle

⏳ Final formalities: Pending

🔔 Arena Alert: Not yet