Everton’s ongoing struggles this season have prompted increasing frustration from fans, and one of the most prominent issues is their lack of firepower up front. Despite the team’s defensive improvements, which have seen them maintain clean sheets in recent matches, the Toffees’ attacking woes continue to be a major hurdle. Even with new signings like the dynamic Iliman Ndiaye and Dwight McNeil offering some attacking spark, the frontline has failed to deliver consistent results. This issue has been exacerbated by the underperformance of their star striker, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who has been largely ineffective in front of goal.
The situation is becoming increasingly untenable for manager Sean Dyche, whose tactical setup has not translated into significant attacking potency. While the defense has remained resolute, the inability to convert chances into goals has resulted in a series of disappointing draws and a lack of progress in the Premier League table. Despite only one loss in their last eight games, Everton supporters have voiced their dissatisfaction with Dyche’s pragmatic style of play, demanding change. The absence of goals is particularly concerning given Calvert-Lewin’s ongoing struggles.
The striker, who has been a fixture at the club since his £1.5m move from Sheffield United in 2016, was once regarded as one of the Premier League’s most promising forwards. Calvert-Lewin’s performances in previous seasons, especially his aerial prowess, drew high praise from his teammates and pundits alike. Richarlison, his former strike partner, famously compared him to Cristiano Ronaldo, noting his leaping ability and physical presence as being reminiscent of the Portuguese legend. “He must be a nightmare to play against and has an incredible leap on him like Cristiano Ronaldo,” Richarlison remarked, highlighting the expectation surrounding the striker’s potential.
However, in recent seasons, Calvert-Lewin has struggled to recapture his best form. Injuries have hindered his consistency, but even when fit, his performances have been underwhelming. This season, he has failed to score in eight consecutive matches, a dry spell that highlights his lack of sharpness and clinical ability. His struggles have become emblematic of Everton’s broader issues, with the team unable to break down opponents or capitalize on key opportunities. Despite starting every league match, Calvert-Lewin’s impact has been minimal, having missed several big chances and posted a disappointing 59% pass completion rate.
With Calvert-Lewin’s contract set to expire next summer, Everton face a difficult decision regarding his future. Reports suggest that clubs like AS Roma and Juventus have expressed interest in securing his services in the January transfer window. For Everton, selling the striker in January could be a pragmatic move, allowing them to recoup some value before he departs for free at the end of the season. The incoming ownership of The Friedkin Group (TFG) is likely to usher in changes at the club, and a new striker may be part of the overhaul needed to kickstart Everton’s attacking revival.
In a broader context, the situation highlights Everton’s ongoing struggle to find stability and direction under Dyche’s leadership. While his defense-first approach has been effective at times, the lack of balance in attack has ultimately left the team floundering in mid-table. Fans are growing impatient, and many believe the time has come for significant changes in both personnel and tactics. The sale of Calvert-Lewin could be one of the first steps in rewriting the narrative at Goodison Park, as the club seeks to restore its competitive edge and challenge for higher honors once again.