Everton FC is facing a tumultuous period, both on and off the field. The team’s highly anticipated friendly match against AS Roma at Goodison Park on Saturday has been overshadowed by the collapse of the Friedkin Group’s takeover bid. The Texan billionaire, Dan Friedkin, had been poised to acquire the club, but his withdrawal has left Everton in a state of flux.
Friedkin’s success at Roma, where he has transformed the club into a stable and profitable entity, had given Everton fans hope that he would bring similar prudence and savvy to Goodison Park. However, his decision to pull out of the deal has left the club back on the market, with few potential buyers emerging.
Manager Sean Dyche and director of football Kevin Thelwell have worked tirelessly to strengthen the squad in the summer transfer window, securing five new signings, including permanent deals for Jake O’Brien, Iliman Ndiaye, and Tim Iroegbunam. Despite their efforts, the lack of involvement from majority owner Farhad Moshiri has hindered their progress.
In contrast, Friedkin’s influence at Roma has been instrumental in the club’s recent success. His willingness to invest in the team has seen them crowned inaugural Europa Conference League winners in 2022 and reach the Europa League semi-finals last term. Friedkin’s backing has also enabled Roma to sign forward Artem Dovbyk for €30 million from Girona, a deal that boss Daniele De Rossi admits would not have been possible without the American’s support.
As Everton prepares to face Roma on Saturday, the contrast between the two clubs’ fortunes could not be more stark. While Roma is aiming to break back into the Champions League, Everton is struggling to find stability and direction. The Toffees’ financial turmoil, which has seen them lose almost £400 million in four years, has led to the sale of key players and a protracted takeover saga that has left fans frustrated and disillusioned.
Friedkin’s withdrawal from the takeover bid has dealt a significant blow to Everton’s hopes of finding a new owner who can bring stability and investment to the club. As the team takes to the field on Saturday, fans will be left wondering what could have been if Friedkin had succeeded in his bid to acquire the club.
In the meantime, Dyche and Thelwell will continue to work tirelessly to strengthen the squad and improve results on the field. However, the lack of clarity and direction from the top of the hierarchy will continue to hinder their progress. Everton’s future remains uncertain, and fans can only hope that a new owner will emerge who can bring the stability and investment that the club so desperately needs.