David Moyes Agrees to Return as Everton Manager

David Moyes has agreed to return as Everton manager, 11-and-a-half years after leaving the club to join Manchester United. The 61-year-old Scot will take over following the sacking of Sean Dyche, who was dismissed on Thursday after a poor run of form left Everton just one point above the Premier League relegation zone.

Moyes, who previously managed Everton from 2002 to 2013, is set to bring stability to a club that has seen eight permanent managers since his departure. His return comes at a critical time, with Everton struggling near the bottom of the table and facing a potential relegation battle. The Toffees have won just three of their 19 league games this season.

Speaking to Sky Sports News in December, Moyes expressed reluctance to take on a job at a club fighting relegation. However, the opportunity to return to Goodison Park appears to have changed his stance. “Football is in my blood,” Moyes said recently. “If there is another part to it, so be it. But I would only want it to be a good part.”

Moyes’ first spell at Everton was marked by stability and success, as he transformed the club from Premier League strugglers to European contenders. Under his leadership, Everton reached the Champions League qualifying stage in 2005. However, the club he returns to is vastly different, with new American owners, The Friedkin Group, and a director of football, Kevin Thelwell, overseeing operations.

Dyche’s sacking was announced just hours before Everton’s 2-0 FA Cup win over Peterborough on Thursday. Defender Michael Keane, who played under Dyche at both Everton and Burnley, acknowledged the players’ role in the manager’s departure. “As players, we need to take responsibility for that,” Keane said. “I don’t think we as players have been good enough as a collective.”

Mike Richards, from The Unholy Trinity Everton Podcast, believes Moyes’ return could provide the stability the club desperately needs. “Moyes is the proverbial safe pair of hands who can certainly provide stability and begin what is a major rebuild we so desperately need,” Richards said. “Now isn’t the time for a young, up-and-coming manager. A strong head, safe hands, and this familiar face make perfect sense.”

Moyes’ immediate task will be to secure Everton’s Premier League status ahead of their planned move to a new stadium. With the club in turmoil and the fanbase divided, his experience and familiarity with Everton could prove crucial in navigating the challenges ahead.