NafisaEverton have begun their squad reshuffle even before the Premier League campaign has concluded.
David Moyes and the Friedkins are planning the transition to the Hill Dickinson Stadium over the summer, with Goodison Park preparing for one final emotional occasion on Sunday.
The Toffees host Southampton in Merseyside on 18 May, with a significant day lined up to bid farewell to the Grand Old Lady, and for some players, it will also mark their final appearance in blue on home soil.
Abdoulaye Doucoure is one of several players whose contracts expire at the end of this term, and changes have already commenced within the group.
Everton confirm latest departures at Goodison:
Everton revealed on Saturday that Ashley Young will depart the club when the season ends, with João Virginia and Asmir Begovic also heading out.
Doucoure was not named in the recent statement, while players such as Dominic Calvert-Lewin are also nearing the end of their deals at Goodison.
Young posted on Instagram to express his deep appreciation to everyone at Everton ahead of his remaining two games, offering his best ahead of the stadium switch.
Doucoure promptly responded to the post, writing: “Legend, mate.”
Young expected to secure new move:
Although early discussions over a new deal took place, it seems an agreement could not be reached with Young.
At 39 years old, some have speculated about retirement, but the veteran defender appears ready to continue playing, with interest coming from both overseas and within the UK.
Competition Appearances Goals Assists
Premier League 30 1 3
Young’s Premier League stats this season.
Featuring in 30 Premier League fixtures, largely as a substitute, Young has shown his dependability in terms of fitness, but a higher calibre is now required.
With the Friedkins overseeing sweeping changes behind the scenes and in the boardroom, that transformation must carry over to the pitch, and distributing contracts without scrutiny isn’t part of the strategy.
Everton are aiming to climb the Premier League standings, and part of that involves creating space to attract more prominent talent than in previous seasons, where PSR limitations have hindered progress.
Young fulfilled his role by helping maintain Everton’s top-flight status over the past two years, but now, a fresh chapter beckons.
Nafisa
