As expected, Everton have confirmed the exit of midfield Abdoulaye Doucouré after five seasons at the club. The player himself also released a statement today about his time at the club.
The Mali international joined from Watford in the summer of 2020 after they were relegated from the Premier League.
During his tenure on Merseyside, the club often fought relegation battles of their own, but Doucoure was often a key cog in the fight to keep Everton in the top flight. Most notably, his goal against Bournemouth on the final day of the 2022/23 season was the difference between the Championship and Premier League survival.
He was asked to do many things throughout his time in a blue shirt, and was even benched for an extended period under Frank Lampard, while being asked to change to a more attacking role under Sean Dyche, he continue to be a servant of the club to the end.
Doucouré will complete his time at Everton with 165 matches played (147 starts), over 12,700 minutes, and 34 goal contributions (21 goals, 13 assists).
While there has been a great deal of speculation about his future, particularly surrounding a move to Saudi Arabia, don't rule out another opportunity in the Premier League if the fit is there, but he no doubt wants to keep playing football somewhere.
The midfielder finished his statement with these words: "I will miss the fans. I will miss the football club. I just wanted to let them know that I gave everything every single time in training, in games. I was always proud to wear the shirts, always proud to play at Goodison Park."
He wasn't always the more graceful or skilled player, but there's no doubt that Doucouré will be missed. His departure makes the need in midfield all the greater.
Check out Doucouré's video to the Everton supporters here.