Everton’s New Era: U.S. Ownership Takes the Helm

Everton’s New Era: U.S. Ownership Takes the Helm

In a significant development for Everton Football Club, the long-standing ownership saga has finally reached its conclusion. On Thursday, the club announced that the U.S.-based Friedkin Group has successfully completed its takeover. This marks a new chapter for the club, as the American firm takes over the 94.1% majority share previously held by British-Iranian billionaire Farhad Moshiri.

The transition comes at a pivotal time for Everton, as the club prepares to move from its historic home at Goodison Park to a brand-new riverfront stadium next season. This change in ownership also places Everton among the growing list of Premier League clubs under American control, making it the 10th club in the league to have such ownership.

Marc Watts, the incoming executive chairman of Everton, expressed his enthusiasm for the new venture. “Today marks a momentous and proud occasion for The Friedkin Group as we become custodians of this iconic football club,” he stated. “We are committed to leading Everton into an exciting new era both on and off the pitch.”

The Friedkin Group is no stranger to the world of football, as they also own the Serie A club AS Roma. Their experience in managing a top-tier European club will undoubtedly be beneficial as they take on the challenges and opportunities that come with leading Everton.

The Premier League has confirmed that the Friedkin Group has passed its league owners’ and directors’ test. The league stated, “Having been agreed by the [Premier League] board, the takeover has now been ratified by an Independent Oversight Panel.”

Farhad Moshiri, who was once a shareholder in Arsenal, initially acquired a 49.9% stake in Everton back in 2016. By January 2022, he had increased his stake to 94.1% with a £100m capital injection. Despite his efforts, the club has faced a tumultuous journey in recent seasons.

Everton’s men’s side narrowly avoided relegation on the final day of the 2023 season, a feat they repeated last season despite being deducted a total of eight points due to Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR) infringements. The women’s side has also struggled, remaining in the bottom half of the table in recent seasons.

Moshiri expressed his confidence in the new ownership, stating, “I truly believe that the transaction with the Friedkin Group is the best outcome for the club and its future success.” He added, “Despite a challenging geopolitical backdrop, a significant amount has been achieved over the last couple of years including the delivery of a new sporting department, the stabilisation of our finances and the delivery of our iconic new stadium.”

As Everton looks to the future, the club currently sits 16th in the Premier League with 15 points after 15 games. Their next challenge will be hosting Chelsea on Sunday.

• Everton’s new ownership by the Friedkin Group marks the 10th Premier League club under American control.
• The club is set to move to a new riverfront stadium next season.
• Everton’s men’s team narrowly avoided relegation in the past two seasons.
• The Friedkin Group also owns Serie A club AS Roma.

With the Friedkin Group at the helm, Everton fans are hopeful for a brighter future both on and off the pitch. The new ownership brings a fresh perspective and the potential for revitalizing the club’s fortunes. As the team prepares for its upcoming match against Chelsea, supporters will be eager to see how this new era unfolds.