Speaking to Football Presse, Jones made it clear Grealish’s ability remains unquestioned.
“When you’ve got a player that does something different on the pitch that nobody’s expecting, that’s the key that opens the defence,” he said.
“They have the key to the door — and Jack Grealish has that.”
But the reality in April is stark.
Grealish’s season is over after undergoing surgery on a stress fracture sustained in January — a blow not only to Everton’s momentum, but also to his hopes of forcing his way back into the England national football team squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Before the injury, the 30-year-old had re-established himself as a central figure under David Moyes, contributing goals, assists and — crucially — control in the final third.
He had become the player Everton built their attacking structure around.
“At the moment, with a little bit more freedom, he’s showing the qualities that he has,” Jones said.
That freedom — something he lacked at Manchester City — allowed Grealish to return to the role that made him one of the Premier League’s most influential players during his time at Aston Villa.
Now, however, Everton face a major decision.
Despite his injury, the club are pushing to keep him — a sign of how highly he is valued both on and off the pitch. His influence extends beyond numbers, bringing composure, experience and a focal point in possession.
Jones believes that should make the decision straightforward.
“I’ve always liked him,” he said. “He became a better player at Manchester City, and he’s still a top player now.”
The bigger question surrounds risk.
Grealish will enter next season returning from a significant injury, at a stage in his career where physical management becomes more important — and with wages and transfer cost still major factors.
But for Jones, the upside outweighs the gamble.
“He can open the door,” he said. “He can do something different — and that’s what top teams need.”
The international picture, however, is far less certain.
“Will he get into the England squad? I hope so,” Jones admitted. “But that’s going to be a tough call because England have a lot of quality in those positions.”
For now, Grealish’s focus is recovery — and Everton’s focus is a decision that could define their next step under Moyes.
And Jones’ message is clear: players like Grealish don’t come around often.
If you believe in him, you build around him — even after the setback.