Everton is set to face Manchester United with manager David Moyes at the helm, navigating significant squad challenges. Moyes, who was reappointed as Everton manager in January 2025[1], has been vocal about the club’s transfer window activity[2].
The club concluded the summer transfer window with a notably thin squad. Everton’s senior team comprises just 18 players[1]. This limited roster includes only one recognized striker, one right-back, and one left-back[1]. Such constraints could pose significant challenges for Moyes as he manages player fitness and tactical flexibility throughout the season, particularly against top-tier opposition like Manchester United.
Transfer Window Struggles
The recent transfer window proved difficult for Everton in terms of recruitment. A notable instance was the failed move for Folarin Balogun. The striker backed out of a transfer to Everton from Monaco on deadline day[1], further exacerbating the team’s lack of depth in attacking options. This situation leaves Moyes with limited choices upfront, placing increased pressure on the sole senior striker available.
Despite these challenges, Moyes has expressed his commitment to unifying the club[1]. His reappointment in early 2025 marked a return to the club, and he now faces the task of maximizing the potential of his current squad. The upcoming match against Manchester United will be an early test of how Everton can perform with their restricted resources.
Managerial Context and Future Outlook
David Moyes has not yet met the club’s owner, Dan Friedkin, since his return to Everton in January 2025[1]. This dynamic adds another layer to the club’s current situation, as the manager navigates squad building and on-field performance without direct engagement with the ownership. The focus remains on preparing the team for upcoming fixtures, with the Manchester United game being a significant early hurdle.
Manchester United, in contrast, prioritized midfield recruitment during the summer, investing in players like Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans[3]. They face their own challenges with squad rotation due to Champions League qualification and a busy schedule[3], but their depth appears to be less of an immediate concern compared to Everton’s. The contrast in squad depth between the two teams could be a key factor in their upcoming encounter.