Exit-bound Asmir Begovic speaks out as finances get in way of Everton stay
Asmir Begovic has spoken out about the financial situation at Everton, which he says ultimately got in the way of his stay at the club.
The goalkeeper will leave Goodison Park at the end of June upon the expiry of his contract, having joined the club from Bournemouth in 2021.
The 36-year-old, who made 10 appearances for the Toffees, rejected a new deal at the club, as confirmed by the official Everton website (9 June).
“The business side is part of the game – I totally get that,” Begovic told the Liverpool Echo. “That’s the unfortunate part because if it was just down to the people and everything else it would be easier.
“Of course there are certain realities that I understand the club are in and we couldn’t come to an agreement. There’s no hard feelings, that’s just the way it goes.
“I understand where the club are at and the fixtures they have and we move on. It’s as simple as that. I cherished my time at Everton and I think I’m a better player for my time at Everton. I wish the club nothing but the very best.”
Financial mess
Begovic has often spoken about his admiration for the Toffees and how much he enjoyed his time at the club, but clearly the new deal offered to him did not match his expectations.
Perhaps the goalkeeper is also seeking one last thrill on the pitch before he hangs up his gloves, with the Bosnian expected to play second fiddle to Jordan Pickford once again next season had he chosen to stay at Goodison Park.
He was limited to just 10 matches during his two-year spell on Merseyside, the majority of which came in cup competitions.
There was an option to extend his deal, but the club perhaps offered him a much lower deal as they try and save funds this summer, with debt and Financial Fair Play restrictions continuing to impact the Toffees.
It’s a financial mess at the minute, and Begovic has somewhat unsurprisingly chosen to get out of it while he can.
In other Everton news, the Toffees are in hot pursuit of one 35-cap international as his £17million price tag is revealed.