In a landmark development for one of England’s most historic football clubs, Everton FC has announced the completion of a takeover by American firm Friedkin Group. The acquisition, which sees Friedkin Group secure a 94.1% majority share previously held by Farhad Moshiri, heralds the dawn of a new era at Goodison Park.
A Changing of the Guard
The Friedkin Group, already owners of Serie A club AS Roma, now assume the role of custodians for the Toffees. Marc Watts, set to take over as Everton’s Executive Chairman, emphasized the Group’s commitment to ushering Everton into an exciting new chapter:
“Today marks a momentous and proud occasion for The Friedkin Group as we become custodians of this iconic football club. We are committed to leading Everton into an exciting new era both on and off the pitch.”
– Marc Watts, Incoming Executive Chairman
Everton’s Rich History
Founded in 1878, Everton boasts a rich and storied history. As one of the founding members of the Football League in 1888, the club has spent more seasons in the top division than any other English team. With 9 league titles, 5 FA Cups, and a European Cup Winners’ Cup to their name, the Toffees have long been a force in English football.
However, recent years have seen Everton struggle to recapture past glories. The club narrowly avoided relegation last season, finishing 16th, their lowest league position since 2004. Fans will be hoping the Friedkin Group’s takeover can provide the stability and investment needed to propel Everton back up the table.
A New Home on the Horizon
The ownership change comes at a pivotal moment for Everton. Next season will see the club bid farewell to their iconic Goodison Park home after 130 years, as they prepare to move to a state-of-the-art 52,888 capacity stadium on the banks of the River Mersey.
The £500 million riverfront development, a key part of the wider Liverpool Waters project, promises to write an exciting new chapter in Everton’s history. With improved facilities and increased matchday revenues, the move could provide the platform for Everton to re-establish themselves among the Premier League elite.
The American Influence
Everton join a growing list of Premier League clubs under American ownership. Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Aston Villa, and Leeds United all have U.S. based owners or majority shareholders. The trend reflects the Premier League’s growing global appeal and commercial power.
The Friedkin Group, led by billionaire businessman Dan Friedkin, will be hoping to replicate the success they’ve enjoyed at AS Roma. Since acquiring the Italian club in 2020, they’ve overseen a resurgence that culminated in Roma winning the inaugural Europa Conference League in 2022.
The Road Ahead
For Everton fans, the Friedkin Group’s arrival brings a mix of excitement and trepidation. While the promise of fresh investment and new ideas is tantalizing, there will also be concerns about the potential for upheaval and the loss of the club’s local identity.
The immediate priority will be securing Everton’s Premier League status. Despite some impressive summer signings, the team has struggled for consistency this season. Manager Frank Lampard will be under pressure to turn results around quickly.
Longer-term, the focus will be on establishing Everton as a regular presence in the top half of the table and challenging for European qualification. This will require astute recruitment, improved player development, and a clear footballing philosophy.
A New Chapter Begins
As the Friedkin Group era begins, Everton stand at a crossroads. The potential for a bright future is there, but navigating the challenges ahead will require skill, patience, and no small amount of luck.
For the Club’s legion of passionate fans, there will be hope that this marks the beginning of a new golden age. An age where the Grand Old Team once again takes its place among English football’s elite, spurred on by the roar of the Goodison faithful and the gleaming promise of a new riverfront home.
The takeover is complete. The future is unwritten. For Everton Football Club, a new dawn beckons.
