Mourinho Eyed as Potential Successor to Dyche at Everton

Everton’s managerial situation continues to spark speculation, with sources indicating that Jose Mourinho has emerged as a “strong option” to take over from current boss Sean Dyche. According to Football Insider, the potential arrival of Mourinho could coincide with the completion of Dan Friedkin’s takeover of the club, which has put Dyche’s future under intense scrutiny.

Mourinho, who is currently managing Turkish club Fenerbahce, has a strong history with Friedkin, having been appointed by him at Roma back in 2021. Despite only taking the Fenerbahce job this summer, sources suggest that Mourinho should not be ruled out as a candidate for the Everton role. With a resume boasting three Premier League titles, Mourinho’s experience would be a significant departure from Dyche’s pragmatic approach.

Dyche’s Struggles and Everton’s Uncertain Future

Dyche’s tenure at Everton has been far from smooth. His win rate of just 34%—the lowest of his managerial career—has put his position under considerable threat. Everton’s dismal start to the season, combined with Friedkin’s looming takeover, has led to serious questions about whether Dyche is the right man to lead the club into their new 52,888-seater stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock next year.

With his contract set to expire at the end of the season, sources within the club suggest that it’s unlikely Dyche will remain in charge beyond the summer. Friedkin reportedly does not see Dyche as the long-term solution, casting doubt over whether he can steer the club clear of relegation—a concern growing ever more real with each passing fixture.

Mourinho’s Potential Fit at Everton

If Mourinho were to be appointed, it would be a bold move. His pedigree is unquestionable, with Champions League titles and Premier League success marking him out as one of football’s most accomplished managers. However, Mourinho’s reputation has suffered in recent years, with his last stint in English football ending on a sour note at Tottenham.

For Everton, the appeal of Mourinho might lie in his ability to handle high-pressure situations and attract top talent. With Friedkin eager to move Everton forward, Mourinho’s arrival could signal a shift in ambition, moving the club away from the relegation zone towards European qualification aspirations.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

The potential appointment of Jose Mourinho could raise mixed feelings. On one hand, Mourinho’s trophy-laden past makes him an enticing candidate—his presence alone could lift the profile of the club and attract higher calibre players. But on the other hand, there’s genuine concern that Mourinho’s style, which is often defensively rigid and prone to creating rifts within the dressing room, may not suit Everton’s current predicament.

Given the struggles they’ve faced under Dyche, it’s understandable that some fans may welcome a change. Dyche’s conservative approach has at times looked outdated, and with relegation still a genuine threat, a fresh start under someone as experienced as Mourinho could give them the jolt they need. However, Mourinho’s recent record, particularly at Spurs, wasn’t exactly stellar, and there’s a fear that his tactics might not work with Everton’s current squad.

Moreover, there’s the question of what happens if things go wrong. Mourinho is known for high-profile exits, often leaving clubs in disarray. The last thing Everton need, especially as they prepare to move into a new stadium, is more turmoil. While Mourinho’s arrival could bring short-term gains, fans will ask themselves whether he’s the right long-term fit for a club that desperately needs stability.