First a new manager.
Next, a new stadium, which is an Everton announcement that supporters are far less likely to grumble about than Rafa Benitez becoming the manager.
The club confirmed the start date in a press release on its official website.
Work will start on Monday 26 July with the first part of the construction intended to make the site ready for the actual building of the stadium, which is expected to cost £500 million.
According to the release, contractors Laing O’Rourke will repair and preserve the Grade II listed dock wall, stabilising of the hydraulic tower located on the site, the development of welfare facilities for Laing O’Rourke construction staff, the preparation for demolition of existing non-listed structures, and raking of the dock floor. Pipework will also be installed that will be used for the infilling of the dock.
The Premier League welcomed the news, Richard Masters, the League’s chief executive said in the Liverpool Echo,
"“Stadium developments are an example of the contribution our clubs make, not only to the sport, but to both the regional and wider economy.“After a season when Covid-19 posed considerable challenges for football and society as a whole, the commitment Everton has made to this development should be commended.More from Prince Rupert's TowerEverton 0 Arsenal 1: Blues fall to third home defeatFurther chaos in Everton takeover as other lenders not keen on 777 PartnersEverton need repeat of Arsenal win to kick-start their season on SundayMore madness at Everton as Moshiri now agrees to sell club to 777 PartnersEverton takeover talk cools after UK govt doubts and further questions"
The club states the new stadium, which will replace Goodison Park, the ground that has been the Blue’s home since 1892, will boost the local economy by £1 billion.
Toffees chairman Bill Kenwright said acknowledged the importance of Goodison Park, telling the club’s website
"Like every Evertonian Goodison Park has been a massive part of my life but in moving forward we could not have found a more fitting nor more glorious site for our new stadium – one which will both honour our history and celebrate our magnificent future.”"
In the release, Denise Barratt-Baxandale, the club’s CEO said the new build demonstrated owner Farhad Moshiri commitment and ambition for Everton.
The stadium is slated to open for the start of the 2024-25 season and will seat 52,888.
Are you looking forward to the new stadium?