£90k-a-week man admits he fought with Everton, he even phoned Rafa Benitez

While away on Copa America duty with Brazil, Richarlison has admitted that he and Everton have been arguing this summer.

What’s the story?

Well, once the Copa America is over, Brazil will turn their attentions to the Olympic Games.

Understandably given the size of the event, Richarlison wants to partake.

However, after allowing him to play at the Copa America, Everton were reluctant to let him do both.

Participation in the Olympic Games would see Richarlison miss the start of the 2021/22 Premier League season.

Once he gets back, he will also – presumably – be quite tired, and also lacking a proper pre-season.

What has Richarlison said?

Well, it seems Richarlison has won the battle.

After bickering with Everton all summer, and even following a phone call with Rafa Benitez, he will now play at the Olympics.

Speaking to ESPN (via UOL), the £90,000-a-week forward said: “I had a fight there, right? I spent the whole day arguing with Everton, with the director. I also called the new coach.

“It’s very important for me to get this experience, get more mature because it’s going to be important to me. When I heard about the news that Everton released me, I came to the game even happier to wear this shirt.”

Now, this is a tough one to deal with.

Of course, Everton would prefer to see one of their best players have a proper break and come back to Merseyside fit and firing.

However, the Toffees would risk upsetting their No.7 if they declined his request to play at the Olympics.

What’s worse? An unhappy player, or a tired player in good spirits?

In Everton’s case, it seems they’ve chosen the latter.

In other news, Gaetano Berardi’s one-word reaction to Leeds United contract news