The Sean Dyche era at Everton has come to an end, and the Friedkin era is firmly in motion. The club’s new owners made their move decisively, parting ways with Dyche just hours before an FA Cup match against Peterborough United.
Dyche’s departure follows a poor stretch of results, with Everton managing only one goal in five matches over the festive period, pushing them closer to the relegation zone.
So, what’s next for the Toffees, and who should replace Dyche? Our panel offers their thoughts.
Mourinho would be a spectacle, but Moyes is the right choice
Connor O’Neill: A potential Everton team managed by Jose Mourinho would be a thrilling prospect—undoubtedly a spectacle. But realistically, that’s unlikely. Instead, the Blues must consider other options.
There are not many viable candidates at the moment, and while Graham Potter was a target, he has now joined West Ham. However, the ideal replacement for Dyche may well be a former Hammers manager: David Moyes.
While some supporters may view this as a step backward and lacking creativity, it’s actually the most sensible option for Everton. Given the current state of the club, a steady hand who knows what they’re doing is essential, and Moyes offers that experience.
Moyes feels like the right man
Paul Wheelock: Unfortunately, my dream appointment, Diego Simeone, is not a realistic option given his ongoing success at Atletico Madrid. Other potential candidates, like Andoni Iraola from Bournemouth and Thomas Frank of Brentford, are promising, but their situations don’t align with Everton’s at the moment.
The summer may bring a different set of opportunities, particularly with a new stadium on the horizon and potential financial backing. But for now, Everton’s future in the Premier League is at risk, and that’s why Dyche’s tenure ended in disappointment. Despite a strong start, his final months were underwhelming, and he couldn’t argue with his dismissal.
In this context, David Moyes seems like the obvious choice. He’s proven himself at West Ham and during his earlier spell at Everton. While returning may seem like a retrograde step, Moyes could be the right man for the job, especially with the club needing someone who can make an immediate impact.
Moyes’ experience and adaptability could be just what Everton need
Matt Jones: A major rebuild is required at Everton, one that will be both painful and challenging. However, this process must start with the club remaining in the Premier League.
That means the Friedkin Group may need to act swiftly, even if they had hoped to delay significant changes until the summer. In this urgent scenario, a manager with experience and adaptability is crucial—and David Moyes fits that bill.
He did a fantastic job at West Ham, leading them to record points totals and European success. Moyes has also demonstrated flexibility in his approach, adapting to different situations. It’s unlikely he’ll try to implement a completely open style with this squad, but he could bring more direction and positivity. Additionally, he could extract more from the talented players at his disposal than Dyche did.
Much will depend on the length of the contract Moyes is willing to accept, but in the short term, he could be exactly what Everton need to lay the foundation for a better future.
Friedkin Group get unanimous new Everton manager verdict as main contender becomes clear
