Neal Maupay has reignited tensions with Everton fans through a sharp social media post that drew a blunt response from passionate supporter and former boxing champion Tony Bellew.
The French striker, who joined Everton from Brighton in 2022, endured a difficult spell at Goodison Park, managing just one goal in 32 appearances across all competitions.
Now on loan at Marseille with an obligation to buy at season’s end, the 28-year-old hasn’t held back his disdain for his former club.
After Everton’s 2-0 home defeat to Nottingham Forest on Sunday, Maupay took to X (formerly Twitter) to share his thoughts, posting:
“Whenever I’m having a bad day I just check the Everton score and smile.” Bellew, an outspoken Everton fan, promptly replied with an unfiltered one-word retort: “P***k!”
This isn’t the first time Maupay has angered Everton supporters. Over the summer, as reports of his loan move to Marseille emerged, he posted a clip from The Shawshank Redemption showing the lead character celebrating his escape from prison, symbolizing his joy at leaving the club.
During his unveiling at Marseille, Maupay addressed the controversial post, stating: “Supporters love to discuss, criticise, and celebrate. I’m no different. My video was just a lighthearted way to express relief about leaving Everton, as both the club and I knew it was time for a change.”
Everton manager Sean Dyche described Maupay’s time at the club as a “real tough run.” Meanwhile, at Marseille, Maupay has scored two goals in 11 Ligue 1 appearances, contributing to the team’s current second-place standing in the French top flight.