Everton concluded the 2024-25 Premier League season in 13th place under David Moyes, comfortably clear of relegation but far from the ambitions of a club preparing to move into a brand-new stadium. With expectations climbing and ownership under The Friedkin Group aiming higher, the spotlight is now firmly on the manager’s position. Is Moyes the man to lead Everton into a new era or is change inevitable?
David Moyes: The Return and the Reality
Re-appointed on January 11, 2025, Moyes inherited a team floundering in 16th. His steady hand guided them to 13th with 48 points (11W, 15D, 12L), achieving much-needed stability. His historic legacy at the club – from 2002 to 2013 – brought European football and consistent top-half finishes. The current stint, however, comes with different challenges: financial restrictions due to profit and sustainability rules, a squad in flux, and the pressure of delivering results in a brand-new Everton Stadium.
Could a Change Be Imminent?
While Moyes’ role is secure for now, Premier League history shows how quickly fortunes – and managerial tenures – can shift. The expectations are clear: climb the table, aim for European football, and deliver an identity on the pitch. Should Everton start the 2025-26 campaign sluggishly, the board could opt for a reset, especially with major investment in infrastructure already raising expectations.
Who Could Be Next? The Top Contenders
If the Toffees do part ways with Moyes, several names are already in the mix. These three candidates stand out – each offering a distinct profile for the club’s next chapter.
| Manager | Current Job | Probability of Appointment |
|---|---|---|
| Graham Potter | West Ham United | 25% |
| Jose Mourinho | Fenerbahce | 20% |
| Lee Carsley | England U21 | 15% |
| Paulo Fonseca | Lyon | 10% |
| Edin Terzic | Free Agent | 8% |
| Steve Cooper | Free Agent | 7% |
| Gareth Southgate | Free Agent | 5% |
Graham Potter – Tactical Architect
Currently a free agent, Graham Potter has built a reputation for intelligent, progressive football. At Brighton, he achieved a 9th-place finish with a stylish, possession-based system. His tenure at Chelsea may have been turbulent, but his 135 matches included significant squad development and bold tactical shifts. For a club like Everton seeking identity and a long-term project, Potter presents a compelling option.
Jose Mourinho – The Winner
One of the most decorated managers in modern football, Mourinho’s three Premier League titles and experience with top clubs (Chelsea, Manchester United, Spurs) speak for themselves. His reputation for instilling defensive discipline and a winning mentality could be attractive to a club with European aspirations. Currently managing in Turkey, Mourinho has openly expressed interest in returning to a major league. If Everton want ambition with pedigree, Mourinho fits the bill.
Lee Carsley – The Sentimental Favorite
A former Everton stalwart and now England U21 manager, Carsley has guided his youth side to back-to-back European Championship titles in 2023 and 2025. His deep roots at Goodison Park and success in nurturing talent make him a fan-favorite. Should the club look to build from within and foster a new identity, Carsley’s appointment would be both emotionally and strategically significant.
Everton’s Present Reality and Managerial Expectations
Everton’s 2024-25 season was defined by pragmatism. But the new stadium and rising expectations mean pragmatism alone won’t suffice. Financial constraints may limit summer spending, making player development and tactical innovation essential. Any new manager will be expected to:
- Secure a top-half finish, ideally pushing for European qualification
- Maximize limited transfer budgets and nurture existing talent
- Unite the squad and fanbase during the transitional stadium move
TipsGG Expert Opinions and Predictions
As of July 1, 2025, bookmakers still see Moyes leading Everton into next season, but the odds are tightening on a managerial change. Industry insiders suggest Potter and Mourinho are top-tier options, with Carsley’s stock rising rapidly.
Should results waver, expect the narrative to shift quickly. For now, Everton’s managerial future remains in David Moyes’ hands – but only just.