David Moyes learned of possible Everton sale from owners' announcement

David Moyes said The Friedkin Group's plans came as a surprise. Everton's owners are exploring new investment options, including a potential sale of their controlling interest.

At his October 9 press conference, Moyes said he learned about the decision that morning when the club published its statement to supporters. He said he had expected the current owners to remain involved with Everton for a long time.

The Friedkin Group, led by Dan Friedkin, completed its takeover in December 2024, ending Farhad Moshiri's ownership. In Friday's announcement, the group said its initial priority had been to provide financial stability and support, including helping to complete the new stadium.

The owners now believe it is time to consider the next stage. Their statement sets out different possibilities for attracting capital, including a controlling-stake sale. It does not mean a deal has been completed. No buyer or new ownership terms were announced.

Moyes acknowledged that difficulties during the latest transfer window had already prompted questions about the owners' intentions. He described the summer as difficult and recalled returning to Everton with the ambition of restoring the club to regular contention for European competition.

However, the manager rejected the suggestion that he felt deceived by promises. He emphasised his attachment to Everton and said his greatest concern was for supporters facing another wait for clarity about the club's future.

Before The Friedkin Group's takeover, proposed sales involving 777 Partners and John Textor failed to produce completed deals. Everton also experienced points deductions for breaching Premier League financial rules. Moyes, who returned in early 2025, said the subsequent period had been calmer and the team had started to rebuild stability.

Asked about his own future, Moyes said he had not yet considered the situation from that perspective. He intends to keep players focused on matches and expects supporters to rally behind the team. He said the squad needed to continue pursuing wins despite uncertainty over ownership.

The Friedkin Group said it would consider interest only from parties it believed were suitable to guide Everton's development. It pledged continued support for the team and the club's community work, while declining further comment during the process.