Jose Mourinho to Everton ‘surprise’: ‘Massive’ update
Everton would have to be very “careful” with a pursuit of Jose Mourinho as the first managerial appointment by The Friedkin Group, according to Paul Merson.
Sean Dyche was dismissed as Everton manager on 9 January following a dismal run of form, with the team managing just one win in their last 11 matches.
HIs departure leaves the Toffees just above the Premier League relegation zone, sitting 16th with only a single point separating them from the bottom three.
Speculation over his replacement has intensified, with rumours pointing to the Mourinho. Betting odds on the ex-Chelsea boss taking over were dramatically slashed, suggesting serious consideration from Everton’s board.
However, former Premier League midfielder Paul Merson shared his take on the “massive” name, and pointed towards Everton’s looming relegation battle. He said on Sky Sports: “I don’t see how this job ticks the box.
“They’re in a massive, massive relegation fight and I mean a massive relegation fight. I just don’t see how he does any different to Sean Dyche, I just don’t see any difference to that.
“So for me I’d be surprised. Again, it’s a name, he’s a massive name in football. But yeah, I’d be careful on that one, I’d be careful on that one”.
Everton must nail next appointment amid a challenging season
Football Insider opinion
The club’s new majority owners, The Friedkin Group (TFG), were initially hesitant to make immediate changes regarding Dyche’s future, preferring to carefully evaluate the situation.
However, frustration grew as Everton’s form failed to improve, with the team going without a goal in eight of their last ten matches.
While appointing a high-profile figure like Mourinho would certainly signal intent from the new ownership, this now seems increasingly unlikely.
Instead, Football Insider sources reveal the club is in advanced negotiations to bring back David Moyes as their new manager.
With Everton staring down another relegation battle, appointing Mourinho might bring excitement, but his lack of relegation experience in such scenarios raises concerns.
Moyes, in contrast, boasts a proven track record of stability and success. Despite his tenure at West Ham ending poorly, he avoided any relegation scares and delivered a European trophy by winning the Conference League.
For now, the Toffees must shift their focus back to the Premier League. After a morale-boosting FA Cup victory over Peterborough, they face a crucial test against Aston Villa on January 15.
In other news, Everton have an interest in a Premier League club’s recruitment chief.
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