Everton are optimistic about appointing David Moyes as their new manager following a series of productive talks with the club’s former boss. Moyes, who managed Everton from 2002 to 2013, met with representatives from The Friedkin Group (TFG), Everton’s new ownership, on Friday to discuss the possibility of a return. The negotiations are reportedly progressing well, with a deal expected to be finalized within the next 24 hours. While the exact length of the contract is still under discussion, it is anticipated that it will cover the remainder of this season and the club’s first year at their new Bramley-Moore Dock stadium in 2025-26.
Moyes became TFG’s top choice after the club parted ways with Sean Dyche, who was dismissed just hours before Everton’s FA Cup win against Peterborough on Thursday. Dyche’s departure came with Everton sitting just one point above the relegation zone, making the need for a swift managerial change all the more pressing. Although there was some initial interest in former Brighton manager Graham Potter, who was appointed by West Ham, talks did not progress far enough to offer him a contract. TFG also did not pursue José Mourinho, who had been dismissed by Roma a year ago.
Everton’s owners are hopeful that Moyes, with his previous experience at the club and his track record of steadying teams in difficult situations, can help steer the team away from relegation. His return would not only aim to avoid the drop but also lay the foundations for a more stable future as the club plans its move to the new stadium. Moyes is seen as a figure who can build for the long term, especially after the turmoil of Farhad Moshiri’s ownership, which has seen a high turnover of managers and instability.
Moyes, 61, has been out of work since leaving West Ham at the end of last season. In a recent interview, he mentioned that he was not keen on returning to a club embroiled in a relegation battle. However, his strong connection with Everton, where he spent over a decade and established a solid reputation, makes this situation a unique exception. Everton’s owners are confident that Moyes understands the club’s culture and challenges, making him the ideal candidate to manage the team during this critical period.
Should Moyes agree to terms, he would become Everton’s ninth permanent manager in the past nine years. This turnover of managerial staff has been a hallmark of the club’s recent history, and the owners are hoping that Moyes’ return can bring a sense of stability and direction. With Everton set to face Aston Villa in the Premier League on Wednesday, the club is eager to have Moyes, or whichever manager TFG appoints, in place before the match.
In addition to the managerial appointment, Moyes will also need to make decisions regarding his backroom staff, as Ian Woan, Steve Stone, Mark Howard, and Billy Mercer all departed with Dyche. This will be another important step as Moyes looks to reshape the team and start the process of reviving Everton’s fortunes both on and off the pitch.
