A dynamic and skilful winger, Gerard Deulofeu is best remembered by Everton fans for his electrifying pace, sharp dribbling and moments of brilliance that punctuated his two stints with the club.

Born in March 1994, in Riudarenes, Catalonia, Deulofeu began his footballing career at Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, where his technical abilities and creative flair stood out from a young age. He represented Spain more than 80 times at youth level and after helping Spain win the 2012 Under-19 European Championships he was named Player of the Tournament. However, despite his prodigious talents, breaking into a team that possessed Lionel Messi, Neymar Jr and Luis Suarez as its forward line was always going to pose its challenges.

In an attempt to gain more playing time, Deulofeu first joined Everton on loan for the 2013/14 season, making an immediate impression under manager Roberto Martínez. His debut campaign in English football showcased his ability to torment defenders with his direct running and eye for goal. He scored a memorable equalizer against Arsenal in a 1–1 draw in December 2013, a strike that typified his explosiveness and precision. Martínez described him as a ‘diamond of a player.’

Despite flashes of brilliance, inconsistency and injuries hampered his impact, and Deulofeu returned to Barcelona at the end of the season. A second loan season followed, this time at Sevilla.

Everton fans’ wish to see more of the mercurial winger was granted in June 2015 when he re-signed for the club on a three-year deal. The move marked an important step for Deulofeu, who was eager to establish himself outside the shadow of Barcelona. ‘The people here have made me feel like I am at home,’ he said upon his return, underlining his affection for the club and its supporters. In his second spell, Deulofeu showed signs of maturity, delivering key contributions during the 2015/16 season. His ability to create chances from wide positions saw him form a productive partnership with striker Romelu Lukaku.

A standout performance came in October 2015 when Everton defeated Sunderland 6–2. Deulofeu scored one goal and assisted two others. However, his inability to maintain consistent form and struggles with defensive responsibilities often frustrated managers and fans alike. The departure of Martinez in May 2016 and the arrival of his replacement Ronald Koeman, who didn’t seem to rate the player, saw his input limited.

By January 2017, he was loaned to AC Milan, where he rediscovered his spark, contributing four goals and three assists in 17 Serie A appearances. At the end of the 2017/18 season, Barcelona activated a buy back clause and he returned to the Nou Camp, although he found opportunities limited under Ernesto Valverde.

A loan move to Watford in January 2018 reinvigorated his career, as he thrived in the Premier League under manager Javi Gracia. His highlight moment at Watford came in the 2019 FA Cup semi-final against Wolverhampton Wanderers, where he scored a stunning chipped goal to inspire a remarkable comeback.

Injuries, however, disrupted his progress at Watford, and in October 2020, he joined Udinese, where he continued to display his creative flair and technical ability. Speaking in 2021, Deulofeu reflected on his career with a candid acknowledgment of its ups and downs: ‘I have learned a lot, and I have always given my best. Football is about moments, and I always try to enjoy them.’