The air of frustration and anxiety hanging heavy over Goodison Park following Everton’s goalless draw against a ten-man Brentford speaks volumes about the club’s current predicament. This isn’t a new feeling; it’s a persistent malaise that deepens with each passing month, punctuated only by the glimmer of hope offered by the majestic new stadium rising on the Mersey waterfront and the anticipated arrival of new owners, the Friedkin Group (TFG).
While a player’s recent comment highlighting Everton’s single defeat in their last eight matches attempts to offer a positive spin, the beleaguered fanbase remains unconvinced. Wins, strong performances, goals – these are the tangible signs of progress they crave, a stark contrast to the constant relegation battle that has defined the club for far too long. The persistent struggle has left Everton teetering precariously close to the dreaded drop.
Inevitably, manager Sean Dyche is bearing the brunt of the criticism. Despite guiding the Toffees through some of their most challenging periods, results ultimately dictate a manager’s fate. While there have been crucial victories under his leadership, consistency has eluded the team, leaving them far from where the fans expect them to be. It’s important to acknowledge the extraordinarily difficult circumstances Dyche has navigated, many beyond his control, often shouldering the responsibility alone. He and Director of Football Kevin Thelwell have also operated under severe financial constraints.
However, the goodwill Dyche garnered last season seems to have evaporated. Fan dissent over team selections and tactics is growing with each match. With his contract expiring at the end of the season, and no contract extension talks underway, the situation remains uncertain. This is largely attributed to the pending ownership change, expected within the next month. Any decisions regarding the managerial position are likely on hold until the TFG officially takes the reins.
While current owner Farhad Moshiri and the board reportedly fully support Dyche, many see the change in ownership as a potential turning point for the manager’s future. Yet, despite speculation, there are no indications of discussions regarding his potential replacement. The Friedkin Group’s focus is currently on finalizing the Premier League ownership process and setting up their administrative structure before the anticipated December deal completion.
This news will likely disappoint fans eager for a change in the dugout, particularly given the challenging December fixture list. Matches against all four of the current top teams, plus a trip to Manchester United, and home games against an improving Wolves and the surprising Nottingham Forest, make for a daunting schedule. A strong performance is critical to avoid a disastrous start to the New Year, something neither the new owners nor the battle-hardened fanbase desire.
This is undoubtedly a pivotal moment for Everton, one of many in the past decade. Yet, there’s a palpable sense that change is imminent, although the uncertainty remains. Evertonians have observed the operations of TFG’s other club, AS Roma, fueling questions about their ability to adapt to the Premier League. While vastly different contexts, similarities exist. The new stadium and fresh perspective offer a genuine opportunity to restore the club to its former glory, although this will undoubtedly take time. The current league campaign, marking the end of an era at Goodison Park, holds immense significance. The venerable stadium, boasting over 70 years of unbroken top-flight status, deserves a fitting farewell – one that maintains that incredible record.
