All Everton fans are aware that with 3 cups to play in, and the golden standard of a high league position expected for next season, bringing in new signings before the season starts is vital. It is refreshing then, to see our leader, Ronald Koeman acknowledge this and define his priorities for the upcoming season.
In a recent interview with the Liverpool Echo, Koeman made clear that his main priority does not lie in signing new players, but rather securing the players we currently have. I hope this refers to our top players signing long term contracts, but in reality for the most part, it is likely in reference to convincing the likes of Romelu Lukaku to not leave this summer.
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Koeman’s focus on keeping the squad together is a really positive thing to see, since players like Mirallas, Barkley, and Lukaku have been playing together for 4 years now; team chemistry is something money simply cannot buy. It’s refreshing to see this acknowledged, and shows that Koeman truly believes in our current squad.
He goes on to flat-out state that we will need more players to compete in Europa League, signing new players from window to window was one of his conditions upon joining Everton, so it’s a given that we will see some new quality at USM Finch Farm next season.
The general feel of Koeman’s approach to new signings and the future success of Everton is not arrogant, but self-assured and bullish. It’s something all fans will love to see from their manager, and is something I feel Everton have been missing for some time now.
"“But if we really want, we can make the players stick to their contract. That decision will eventually be made by the board.”"
This statement is ultimately stating that Everton Football Club have more than enough resources to sign everyone on 5 year contracts, the only thing stopping them is calculating whether or not paying the players what they want is worth it. Moshiri is in control, and based off what I’ve seen from him so far, that is enough to give me peace of mind that next season will be good for all Evertonians.
Up the Ev.