Dyche: Everton Takeover Has Created ‘Positive Energy’

Sean Dyche assumed the role of Everton manager in January 2023, during the period of Farhad Moshiri’s ownership. Toffees manager Sean Dyche has stated that The Friedkin Group’s acquisition of Everton from Farhad Moshiri has fostered “more of a positive energy” within the club. This transaction, finalized on 19 December and estimated to be valued at over £400 million, brought an end to Moshiri’s tumultuous period of leadership at Goodison Park. The British-Iranian businessman initially purchased a 49.6% share in the club in 2016, subsequently raising his stake to 94.1% six years thereafter. Despite maintaining their top-flight status since the 1953–54 campaign, the Toffees have concluded the last three Premier League seasons in 16th, 17th, and 15th positions, respectively. Everton currently holds a four-point lead above the relegation zone and remains undefeated in their last three fixtures, achieving a win against Wolves and securing goalless draws with title contenders Arsenal and Chelsea. Commenting on Moshiri’s period of ownership, Dyche remarked: “This has been an indifferent period for many different reasons. Expectation went higher, spending went lower, which is always a challenge when that happens.” He further added, “The ownership seems to have given a more balanced view of the club at the moment, a more positive outlook, which is helpful of course, and then it’s for us to keep building on the pitch.” Dyche, whose squad is set to face a Manchester City team that has recorded seven defeats in its last nine matches on Boxing Day, also stated: “The new owners’ words are just ‘stability’ and I think that seems to have brought calmness. But that doesn’t last forever.” He concluded by saying, “I think there just seems to be an air of changing the mood about Everton Football Club. It just seems to have lifted things.”