Everton Target David Moyes as Manager After Sacking Sean Dyche Hours Before FA Cup Clash

Before becoming the new majority owners of Everton, The Friedkin Group had promised to show their commitment to the club "through actions, not words." And the first big decision of their reign was to sack Sean Dyche. The sacking of Dyche came as a shock to many Evertonians, as it came just three hours prior to their FA Cup tie against Peterborough United.

Sean Dyche replaced Frank Lampard as Everton’s manager during the 2022/23 season. During his tenure, he successfully guided the Toffees away from the relegation zone. However, poor recent results and uninspiring performances led to his sacking. The club confirmed Dyche’s sacking via an official statement which read, “Everton Football Club can confirm that Sean Dyche has been relieved of his duties as Senior Men's First Team Manager with immediate effect. Ian Woan, Steve Stone, Mark Howard and Billy Mercer have also left the Club. The process to appoint a new Manager is underway and an update will be provided in due course.” Everton turned to club captain Seamus Coleman and former fan favorite Leighton Baines to take charge on an interim basis, and they oversaw Everton’s 2-0 win over Peterborough United in their FA Cup third-round tie. 

Following the game, Baines expressed his thoughts on the surprising events that transpired on the day. He said, “It has definitely been a difficult day. A manager losing his job isn't good and it normally follows a difficult period. Within all of that, there has to be hope and optimism. Things are changing at the football club with the ownership and new stadium. The manager has had to leave and that is not what anyone wants. There will be a new manager coming in and that brings opportunity.” He also expressed that the club needs to find “stability,” and that can only happen if the hierarchy chooses the right manager. 

Reports have suggested that former West Ham coach David Moyes could become Everton’s next manager. The Scot’s availability, vast experience of the Premier League and of Everton make him an attractive proposition for The Friedkin Group (TFG). Moreover, his 11-year stint with the Toffees (from 2002 to 2013) means that he’s beloved by the Everton faithful. According to several reports, talks between Everton and Moyes could conclude as soon as Friday. Apart from Moyes, Jose Mourinho’s name also came up. However, he’s not in the running for the job. After all, The Friedkin Group sacked the Portuguese from Roma just 12 months ago. With Everton in the tick of a relegation dogfight, the new owners must come to quick and more importantly the right decision.