Credit: Imago

Aheed Abrar

Thu 7 May 2026 13:10, UK

Merlin Rohl was one of the best players on the pitch as Everton drew 3-3 against Manchester City on Monday.

The Germany Under-21 international started for the Toffees on the right-wing at Hill Dickinson Stadium and looked promising.

Michael Ball believes that the 23-year-old has now emerged out of nowhere to be a candidate for David Moyes’ forward line.

The former Blues defender didn’t realise how quick the attacking-midfielder was before his display against the Cityzens, likening him to Usain Bolt.

Rohl’s display at Hill Dickinson Stadium will surely be encouraging for fans and the recruitment department, who have been waiting for him to make a statement since signing from Freiburg last summer.

Merlin Rohl concerns to dissipate at Everton

Writing in the Liverpool Echo on 7 May, Ball said, “Rohl has now emerged from nowhere to become a candidate on the right wing. After creating what was Everton’s only real chance of the first half against Manchester City with a lung-busting run.

“In terms of his physical output, though, he was outstanding with the kind of energetic display that Evertonians love to see. We knew that he was quite a mobile player, but I don’t think anybody realised he had quite the turn of pace that he displayed — he was like Usain Bolt.”

Rohl’s move to the Toffees has been slightly underwhelming and there have been concerns about his lack of game time under Moyes.

The Blues have an obligation to buy the German midfielder for £18million after his initial loan spell, but many fans have been wondering whether he’s worth it.

After Rohl’s display against Man City, supporters will hope he can continue to put in similar performances until the end of the season and push himself into the Scottish manager’s plans for the 2026-27 campaign.

If the attacker can keep up his form at the Merseyside outfit, then there’s no reason why he can’t expect to play a crucial role under Moyes in the foreseeable future.

Dwight McNeil looking over his shoulder after Merlin Rohl development

Dwight McNeil’s future at Everton remains uncertain going into the summer after his move to Crystal Palace fell through in the winter transfer window.

The Englishman seems to have gotten over that disappointment after some exceptional outings for the Toffees in recent weeks, but will be slightly concerned now.

While it seemed like McNeil had regained his spot in the Blues’ starting lineup, Moyes now knows he can turn to Rohl as well.

The final few games of the season could determine who stays at the Merseyside outfit between the two and fans will certainly keep a close eye on the situation.

Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of Goodison Park.