After weeks of speculation and several starts and stops, Everton have confirmed that Idrissa Gana Gueye will return to the club for the 2025/26 season. The new deal also includes an option for the next campaign as well, although there is no indication as to whether this option belongs to the club, player, or if it is mutual.
The Senegal international, who turns 36 in September, has shown no signs of slowing down since he returned to Everton in 2022 after a stint with PSG for three years.
Last season, Gana was named Everton's Men's Player of the Season and Player's Player of the Season for his efforts as a defensive stalwart in midfield, an indication of not only how important he is in the club's successes, but also how he's viewed by his teammates.
Gana led Everton in attempted tackles by more than double the next man, and won them at a 58% clip, while also finishing second on the team in blocks and leading the Toffees in interceptions. He also showed acumen as a progressive player, finishing third on the club in total Shot Created Actions for the season.
Certainly, Gana cannot play forever, so it will be encumbant upon Everton to find another defensive midfielder who can initially pair with the Senegalese and, eventually take his role, be it this summer or in January. But bringing Gana back allows that need to drop nearer to the bottom of the club's summer wish list.
Midfield is still a spot missing a few bodies, with Gana, James Garner, and Tim Iroegbunam currently providing the central midfield depth. Maybe this is a place Everton can use their loan slots or look to sign another younger player who can slowly turn into Gana's long term replacement.
Ultimately, this is good news for Everton supporters, as it brings back a good player who, had he left, would have brought on another massive need for the Blues to cover this summer. It successfully walks the tight rope line of a signing for now and the future, while not hamstringing the club for the long term.