Moyes Contract Talks Pause as Friedkin Group Puts Everton Stake Up for Sale

David Moyes has said discussions over a new Everton contract have slowed after The Friedkin Group put a controlling stake in the club up for sale. The manager, whose present deal has entered its final year, learned of the ownership decision only on the morning it was made public.

What changed for Everton

Everton had held extensive conversations with Moyes during the summer about extending his stay at Hill Dickinson Stadium, but those negotiations are now on hold while the club’s ownership position is addressed.

Moyes said there had been substantial dialogue during the close season, though events around the proposed sale had created “a bit of a lull” as the club works through its wider situation. He stressed that his priority remains improving the team rather than resolving his own future.

The 62-year-old returned as Everton manager in January 2025 and has led the side in 69 matches across all competitions. His record stands at 26 wins, 21 draws and 22 losses.

He said his focus is to keep moving Everton forward, continue building the side and maintain its improvement.

Competition context

Everton have made an unbeaten opening to their Premier League campaign, taking two wins and four draws from their first six fixtures.

The club’s positive results have arrived amid renewed uncertainty away from the pitch. The Friedkin Group, which also owns AS Roma, announced last week that it is prepared to sell a controlling interest in Everton despite taking ownership less than two years ago.

The group has appointed Moelis & Company to advise on the process and has indicated that it will consider only prospective owners it believes can sustain the progress made at the club. Everton’s move into their new stadium has been presented by the ownership as a key part of its work to stabilise the club.

• Moyes’ Everton record: 26 victories, 21 draws and 22 defeats in 69 games.
• Premier League start: unbeaten after six matches, with two wins and four draws.
• Ownership process: Moelis & Company is advising on a potential sale of a controlling stake.

What is scheduled next

Everton will host Chelsea in the Premier League on Saturday while the search for a new controlling investor continues.

Moyes expects another demanding meeting with Chelsea, describing his previous matches against them as consistently difficult. However, he believes Everton are in a strong place after their recent performances and said the side will seek to make the most of its home fixture.