Everton Football Club is at a crucial juncture. After a challenging tour in the United States, the team showed glimpses of improvement in Atlanta. The 2-2 draw against Manchester United offered a ray of hope for manager David Moyes and his squad. As the Premier League season approaches, the question remains: Has Everton done enough in the transfer market to compete effectively? The need for more signings is evident, but will Moyes be content with the reinforcements secured?
This article delves into Everton’s current situation, examining their pre-season performance, transfer activities, and the challenges they face. With the new season on the horizon, it’s time to assess whether Everton is ready to make a significant impact.
Encouraging Signs from Pre-Season
Pre-season is a critical period for teams to fine-tune their fitness and tactics. For Everton, the match against Manchester United provided a much-needed boost. Despite earlier defeats against Bournemouth and West Ham, the Toffees displayed improved fluidity in attack, particularly through Iliman Ndiaye. The midfield showed resilience, and the defense appeared more stable with James Tarkowski’s return to full fitness.
Moyes was able to field 80% of the defensive unit that conceded the fourth-lowest number of goals in the top flight last season. The anticipated return of Jarrad Branthwaite from a thigh injury will further solidify the team’s defensive capabilities. These positive developments suggest that Everton is making progress, but more is needed to ensure a competitive edge.
Moyes’ Concerns and Transfer Market Challenges
Throughout the summer, David Moyes has voiced his frustration regarding the lack of new additions to the squad. He expressed concerns about Everton’s readiness for the new season, emphasizing the “desperation” for fresh talent. The transfer market has proven challenging, with Everton facing stiff competition from rivals, particularly those with the lure of European football or greater financial flexibility.
Despite these challenges, Everton has made some signings, including midfielder Carlos Alcaraz and striker Thierno Barry. However, these additions may not be enough to satisfy Moyes’ ambitions. The club initially aimed for eight to ten new players, but the new recruitment setup and ownership have encountered teething problems.
Missed Opportunities in the Transfer Market
Everton has faced several setbacks in their pursuit of key transfer targets. They missed out on right-wingers Francisco Conceicao and Johan Bakayoko, who opted to join Juventus and RB Leipzig, respectively. Lyon’s Malick Fofana has Champions League aspirations, making a move to Everton unlikely. Additionally, Fulham pipped Everton to the signing of Kenny Tete, further compounding Moyes’ frustrations.
These setbacks have been exacerbated by injuries to key defenders, leaving Moyes with a threadbare squad. The decision to retain Tyler Onyango as cover highlights the depth issues within the team. The early pre-season results reflected these concerns, with defeats against Bournemouth and West Ham exposing vulnerabilities in the squad.
Assessing Everton’s Current Squad
Despite the challenges, there is a belief within Everton that they possess a competitive first XI capable of starting the season strongly. However, the squad requires additional depth and quality to sustain a prolonged campaign. The slow pace of transfer activity among Premier League clubs in the middle ground has added to the sense of urgency for Everton.
Manager Oliver Glasner of Crystal Palace shares Moyes’ concerns about the lack of signings, indicating a broader trend among clubs in similar positions. The final weeks of the transfer window are expected to be crucial for Everton, as they aim to secure the necessary reinforcements to compete effectively in the Premier League.
Potential Transfer Targets
Everton is reportedly close to finalizing a £25 million deal for Chelsea midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, with a five-year contract expected. The club has also engaged in talks with Southampton regarding teenage winger Tyler Dibling, although his high valuation may prompt Everton to explore alternative targets. Leicester City’s James Justin is being considered for full-back cover, and Manchester City forward Jack Grealish could become available.
Addressing the right-wing position remains a top priority, with Dwight McNeil and Alcaraz yet to fully convince in that role. The returns of Tarkowski and Branthwaite have improved the defensive situation, but Moyes is keen to add one or two new wingers before the transfer deadline. The integration of new signings is crucial for the team to gel and perform consistently.
Everton vs Roma: Final Pre-Season Test
Everton faces Roma in their final pre-season friendly at the new Hill Dickinson Stadium. This match is a crucial test for the team before the Premier League season kicks off. Fans are eager to see how the team performs and whether any new signings will feature.
Everton Roma tickets are in high demand as supporters flock to the new stadium. The Everton Roma friendly provides an opportunity to assess the team’s progress and identify areas for improvement. Key Everton Roma players will be under scrutiny as they aim to impress ahead of the season. The Everton Roma score will be closely watched, and many fans will be looking for an Everton Roma stream to follow the action live.
While there may not be many Everton Roma legends on the pitch, the game is an important event for both clubs. Some fans are even humorously asking if Everton Romano will make an appearance. Finding an Everton Roma live stream will be a priority for those unable to attend, and some may even be searching for Everton Roman connections. The match is a significant event, and securing Everton Roma friendly tickets has been a top priority for supporters.
Conclusion: A Work in Progress
Everton’s current state of play reflects a team in transition. While there have been encouraging signs during pre-season, the need for additional signings is undeniable. David Moyes faces the challenge of integrating new players and addressing squad depth issues. The transfer market remains a dynamic landscape, and Everton must act decisively to secure their targets.
Ultimately, the success of Everton’s season will depend on their ability to build a cohesive and competitive squad. The final weeks of the transfer window are critical, and the club must capitalize on opportunities to strengthen their ranks. As the Premier League season approaches, the focus shifts to on-field performance and the pursuit of success.
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