Everton ‘financial problems’ detailed after high-profile Goodison exit – Exclusive
Everton are preparing for life after Kevin Thelwell, following the news he will depart his sporting director role in the summer.
Having joined from MLS franchise New York Red Bulls in 2022, Thelwell has overseen a multitude of signings at Goodison Park, with The Friedkin Group now making the latest in a series of changes having taken over the Toffees in December.
Angus Kinnear will move to Everton from Leeds United at the end of the season in what is considered among several Premier League boards a coup, with previous experience in overseeing stadium moves.
Thelwell has failed to inspire, says expert
Players and staff have backed Thelwell as he prepares to clear his desk at Everton with Tim Iroegbunam the latest to commend the footballing director.
The Toffees midfielder describes Thelwell as having done “more than people will ever know” in a touching tribute.
From the outside, he has had his doubters due to the mixed success of the signings he oversaw in the past three years as relegation battles defined Everton during his tenure.
“I would say he’s done a so-so job, not a spectacular job,” TV commentator and football analysis expert Ian Darke exclusively told Goodison News.
“Lindstrom is doing a bit more; Ndiaye’s been a good signing, Beto has been better under Moyes. Gueye is a good signing. There have been players who have got injured, too.
“You have to gauge how well Thelwell has done against the financial problems at Everton before the Friedkins, to be fair.”
Everton in overhaul under the Friedkins
Thelwell is not the first high-profile individual to leave Everton under the ruthless footballing stewardship of The Friedkin Group – that particular recognition goes to Sean Dyche – and will not be the last.
Having demonstrated their upfront nature in football ownership during their time so far at Roma – not afraid to rock the boat and cull high-calibre individuals – the Friedkins are tunnel-visioned towards what they believe to be best for Everton.
While it doesn’t appear Thelwell has been outrightly shown the door, it is clear there has been no beneficial strategy carved out between himself and the ownership and that all parties would prefer a different direction.
| Kevin Thelwell – football career | |
| Preston North End – Academy manager | 2004-05 |
| Derby County – U18 manager | 2005-08 |
| Wolverhampton Wanderers – U18 manager | 2008-12 |
| Wolverhampton Wanderers – Academy manager | 2013-16 |
| Wolverhampton Wanderers – Sporting director | 2016-20 |
| New York Red Bulls – Director of football | 2020-22 |
| Everton – Director of professional football | 2022-25 |
Kinnear’s appointment is unlikely to be a direct replacement for Thelwell due to the Leeds CEO’s background more on the side of business operations, but certain elements of the roles could well overlap.
In the meantime, David Moyes is ensuring Premier League football kicks off August at Bramley-Moore Dock, with Everton fans set for a new chapter to officially begin.