With the new signings in place, Everton manager Ronald Koeman now gets to find out how well the players can gel together on the pitch.
This has undoubtedly been one of the most exciting summers for Everton in a long time. The flurry of transfer activity has helped build anticipation on the blue side of Merseyside.
Now though, the real fun begins, as Everton prepare to start their pre-season schedule, against Gor Mahia. Adding to the occasion, this will be the first time a Premier League side has played in Eastern Africa.
In reality, as special as it is, the historic nature of this game will be secondary in the minds of Ronald Koeman and his team. What matters most, is finally getting onto the pitch and seeing how the new members of the team interact with the existing players.
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Koeman has already confirmed everyone in the squad will play at least 45 minutes versus Gor Mahia. This will include Michael Keane and Davy Klaassen, who will both wear the Everton jersey for the first time.
However, even this duo have to take a back seat to Wayne Rooney, who will be making his second debut for his boyhood team. In truth, his return to Everton has taken the excitement in Tanzania to a new level.
As reported by BBC Africa‘s Stanley Kwenda, local fans chanted Rooney’s name as the team bus arrived at their hotel. As Everton look to grow their popularity around the world, bringing back a globally-recognised superstar is a stroke of genius.
As for the 31-year-old himself, he believes Everton have the ingredients in place for a successful campaign. Speaking to evertonfc.com, he said:
"“There’s a lot of new faces, but it’s an exciting time for myself and certainly an exciting time for the Club. The Club has shown ambition. The players are in place and, with the younger lads coming through, we’re moving in the right direction. The important thing now is to be successful.”"
Apart from the new signings, another player worth keeping an eye on, is Aaron Lennon. While there will be no pressure put on him after everything he’s been through, it will be interesting to see him back in action.
On paper, the Blues have a lot of exciting pieces in place. Now, it’s a case of seeing how they all gel together on the pitch, if the team is to continue building on the positive vibe reverberating around Goodison Park.
Next: Should Everton sign Mario Lemina?
While it’s only a pre-season game, what are you most looking forward to? Which player or players are you most intrigued by, as the Toffees prepare to play Gor Mahia? Share your thoughts in the comments section.