Everton midfielder Andre Gomes has penned an emotional message after the end of his season-long loan spell at Lille.
Gomes started 18 games in the French top flight across the campaign, with his team finishing fifth and securing a Europa Conference League play-off round spot.
The 29-year-old is poised to return to Finch Farm where manager Sean Dyche faces some tough decisions on the transfer front.
Everton look set for a low risk summer focused on key problem areas of the squad. As well as Gomes, Dyche must decide on next steps for midfielders Jean-Philippe Gbamin and Dele Alli who will return from loans at Trabzonspor and Besiktas.
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Posting on social media tonight, Gomes signed off from Lille with a heartfelt message and admitted he does not yet know 'what the future holds' - amid recent speculation that the Ligue 1 outfit may try and strike another loan deal.
Gomes said: "It's been a long and complicated season. We would have liked to have finished in a better place, but it just didn't happen. Participating in the European competitions next season was our priority and we have achieved our goal! Congrats to everyone for the hard work and support this season!
"Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for making us enjoy every day a group of extraordinary companions and a high quality team. And to you, the supporters, thank you for being by our side and supporting us in the good times and the bad times.
"We don't know what the future holds, but I want you to know that I am proud to have represented this club and this city! My family and I have been very blessed and no matter what happens we love you and you will forever be in our hearts!
"@losclive, thank you so much for everything!"
Gomes, who turns 30 next month, signed for Everton from Barcelona in 2019 after a successful term on loan at Goodison.
The Blues paid a fee of around £22m for his services, as he agreed a five-year contract which runs until the summer of 2024.
Back in April, Gomes was asked about his future beyond the Lille loan and told the Athletic: "Last season, not playing that much, was a trigger for me to say, ‘I need to play and show myself I can be at that level again’. The move in the summer was very tough but I needed it. I think I made the right decision. I’m playing a lot and feel confident."
He added: "I have no idea (what comes next). At the end of the season, we will see. I want Lille to qualify for Europe and Everton to finish in a good position."
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