Everton's current owners, The Friedkin Group, are exploring the possibility of selling a controlling interest in the club. The group, led by American billionaire Dan Friedkin, took full control of Everton in December 2024 after ending Farhad Moshiri's long tenure.
When The Friedkin Group first came into charge, the club was dealing with major financial issues and difficulties both on and off the field. The group's main goal during their time has been to bring stability and support to Everton, including helping finish the long-awaited stadium project. With those goals now largely achieved, The Friedkin Group says it is time to consider what comes next for the club.
They have said they will only consider offers from people or groups they believe are the right leaders to guide Everton forward. Throughout this process, the group's main focus will not change.
Some people within the club and fanbase had already suspected that The Friedkin Group might not stay long, according to Sky Sports. This feeling was partly due to the situation at Roma, where The Friedkin Group also owns a club. They are planning a new stadium in Rome that is expected to cost around one billion pounds.
Although the group said they would support Everton on the pitch, critics argue their actions in recent transfer windows did not show this. The summer transfer window was seen as a failure by many observers. Everton sold key players while struggling to strengthen the squad.
Even though the team had some strong players, they nearly lost promising midfielder Harrison Armstrong. Armstrong was close to joining Nottingham Forest, but the owners ultimately decided against the sale following a strong reaction from fans.
Sky Sports News analyst Alan Myers said the idea of a sale was not unexpected. He noted that The Friedkin Group had previously mentioned looking for investors, which suggested the club might be up for sale. The group’s actions in recent months have led many to question their commitment to Everton's long-term future.
Despite these concerns, the club has made progress under The Friedkin Group’s leadership, according to a report from the BBC. They have brought in necessary investment and helped lay the groundwork for future success. Now, with that foundation in place, they are ready to look at what happens next, The Guardian reported.
Everton confirmed on October 9 that investment bank Moelis & Company has been appointed to advise The Friedkin Group during the process. The owners have not announced a buyer or a completed sale.
Manager David Moyes admitted he was surprised by the announcement and said he only learned about it on Friday morning. Everton were seventh in the Premier League standings after seven matches, offering some encouragement despite the uncertainty surrounding ownership.
The club's future is now in question as The Friedkin Group evaluates its next move.