Everton crisis: ’13 stars set to leave’ and Sean Dyche on the brink
Everton’s impending takeover by The Friedkin Group is facing a significant challenge as the club is confronted with a number of key players set to leave at the end of the season, according to The Times.
The news outlet revealed (2nd December) contracts of several first-team players are due to expire, creating uncertainty and instability for the club’s future. Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Michael Keane, Ashley Young, Seamus Coleman, Idrissa Gueye, Abdoulaye Doucouré, and goalkeepers Asmir Begović and João Virgínia are all set to become free agents in the summer.
Additionally, loan deals for Jesper Lindstrom, Orel Mangala, Jack Harrison, and Armando Broja will also expire, leaving Everton with several gaps to fill in their squad. Mason Holgate, currently on loan at West Bromwich Albion, is also in the final months of his contract, adding to the club’s challenges.
The situation is a huge problem for the prospective new owners, The Friedkin Group, whose takeover from owner Farhad Moshiri is awaiting Premier League approval, making it difficult for them to address the pressing issue of player contracts and future squad planning.
Dan Friedkin has to address Everton’s squad issues
Football Insider opinion
The Toffees seemingly on the brink of a squad crisis, with many key players’ futures at Goodison Park uncertain. Several of those whose contracts are set to expire have been regular starters under Sean Dyche this season, adding to the club’s concerns.
With the team hovering just above the relegation zone, the Blues need to consider whether they can rely on players who may not be at the club next season.
Following a 4-0 defeat to Man United on December 1, Everton are 15th in the Premier League, raising serious questions about Dyche’s future at the helm.
The English manager could be facing the sack soon, as Everton are set to face tough fixtures against Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Man City over the next 20 days.
Keeping Jordan Pickford and Jarrad Branthwaite is crucial for Everton’s future, and they must also strive to retain Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who, despite a quiet season, has proven his capabilities by scoring 16 goals in the 2020/21 season and 13 the year before.
TFG also faces a critical decision regarding Dyche’s future in the coming weeks, and it remains to be seen how the prospective new owners will manage the growing crisis at Everton.
In other news, an Everton star’s loan could be terminated.
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