24-year-old Everton player says the club decided they would not let him leave last year

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Joao Virginia has had to make do with a bit-part role for most of his Everton career thus far.

The 24-year-old started in the Toffees’ under-23s squad before a series of loan moves, the latest coming with Dutch side SC Cambuur. Previously, the goalkeeper has spent time on loan with Sporting Lisbon in his native Portugal.

During his five seasons in and around the first team, Virginia has only managed six first-team appearances, keeping four clean sheets. He is now at a stage in his career where he is looking to stake a claim for a number one shirt, whether that be at Goodison Park or elsewhere.

In a recent interview with the Portuguese media, Virginia has revealed that Everton denied him a summer exit last year.

Everton deny Virginia summer exit

Talking to Radio Renascenca, the Everton goalkeeper said: “This year, they decided they wanted me to stay at the club. Staying, I already knew that, having England’s number 1 goalkeeper in the squad, I would be playing in the cups and waiting for something to happen, but the season is going well.”

Virginia is contracted to Everton until the summer of 2025, which could see the upcoming transfer window become interesting regarding his long-term future on Merseyside.

Yet, he remains optimistic about his form and future prospects despite reduced game time.

“Obviously, at the end of the season, the club came to me, and we sat together to make a decision on my future,” he told the Liverpool Echo.

“They gave me the opportunity to be the number two here at Everton. It was a step up for me because I’ve been away for two years, and when I was here three years ago, I was No. 3, so it was a great opportunity for me. I hoped to get some game time, and it’s turning out to be a great decision, to be fair.”

Pickford’s presence is unfortunate for Virginia. The 29-year-old has been an ever-present and has played a vital role in keeping Everton afloat in recent years. It’s hard to envisage the Toffees targeting another first-choice goalkeeper for several years.

If Virginia does depart in the coming window, looking to land an older number two could be an option, much like the club did with Asmir Begovic.