Everton’s quest for a new manager continues to dominate headlines following the dismissal of Sean Dyche, but one name frequently associated with the role—Jose Mourinho—can seemingly be ruled out.
Sky Sports News reports that there has been no contact between the Premier League club and Mourinho, despite heavy speculation linking the Fenerbahce boss to the job.
The Toffees, currently owned by The Friedkin Group, are navigating a turbulent season in the Premier League, and Dyche’s departure has left them scrambling to find a replacement who can steady the ship. Mourinho was considered a frontrunner by bookmakers immediately after Dyche’s exit, but sources close to the Portuguese manager suggest the role is not on his radar.
This development aligns with Mourinho’s own words from October 2024, when he told Sky Sports he had no interest in managing a club embroiled in a relegation battle. The Friedkin Group, who previously sacked Mourinho from his role at Roma in January 2024, may also have influenced the perception that he isn’t the right fit for Everton at this time.
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Amid the ongoing search, the name of David Moyes continues to emerge as a strong contender. The former Everton manager, who holds legendary status among the club’s fanbase after an 11-year tenure, is reportedly high on the club’s list. Moyes recently hinted that while he isn’t actively seeking to manage a relegation-threatened side, the emotional pull of returning to Goodison Park could sway his decision if an offer is made.
Adding further intrigue to the managerial case, Lee Carsley’s name has been floated as a potential assistant should Moyes be appointed. Carsley, a former Everton player, is widely respected in football circles and could bring fresh energy to the club’s setup if paired with an experienced manager like Moyes.
Another name that has surfaced is Paulo Fonseca, who has previously worked under The Friedkin Group. However, much like Mourinho, Fonseca’s history with Everton’s owners—culminating in his dismissal during their tenure—raises questions about whether the relationship could be rekindled successfully.
Long Term Vision
Sky Sports’ Gary Cotterill provided additional insight into the club’s deliberations, emphasizing that Everton’s next managerial appointment must balance immediate results with long-term vision. The club’s precarious position in the league requires a steady hand, but the fanbase also yearns for a leader capable of restoring the attacking football and ambition that have been absent in recent years.
Everton’s managerial vacancy is further complicated by the club’s financial struggles and ongoing instability. The Toffees have battled relegation threats in consecutive seasons, and finding a candidate willing to take on the challenge will not be easy. While Moyes appears to tick many boxes, the allure of other options cannot be discounted as the board weighs its decision.
Ultimately, while Mourinho’s name brings headlines and speculation, it seems increasingly clear that the Special One will not be heading to Goodison Park. The focus now shifts to Moyes, Fonseca, and a handful of other candidates as Everton attempt to navigate this critical juncture in their history.
Stay tuned for updates on Everton’s managerial search as the club looks to secure stability and avoid the growing specter of relegation. For now, the idea of a Mourinho-led revival at Goodison Park remains firmly in the realm of fantasy.