Sean Dyche has reflected on his departure from Everton, describing the decision as the right move during what he termed “one of its toughest periods in its history.”
The managerial change came unexpectedly, with Everton’s new owners, The Friedkin Group, relieving Dyche of his duties less than four hours before the club’s FA Cup match against Peterborough last Thursday.
At the time of his dismissal, Everton were hovering just above the relegation zone in 16th place in the Premier League.
David Moyes was swiftly appointed as his successor within 48 hours, marking his second stint at Goodison Park.
Moyes signed a two-and-a-half-year contract, taking over from Dyche, who had originally managed Everton between 2002 and 2013.
In a statement released through the League Managers Association, Dyche reflected on his tenure:
“It was an honour to manage Everton, a football club with a significant heritage and an enormous following in Liverpool and all over the world, through one of its toughest periods in its history.
“Despite the challenges we faced, I wanted to ensure that the club’s narrative was focused on the positive direction it will take in the future and that the team could focus on competing in the Premier League in the present.
“I thank my staff, the players and all involved who played their part, as it simply wasn’t possible without their support and expertise.”
Dyche also paid tribute to Everton’s supporters, adding: “I also thank the fans who came through for us many times when we all needed their support. The right time has come to leave the club, with the team in good shape.”
Dyche offered his endorsement of Moyes, saying: “David is a manager who I have great respect for and I believe he and his staff will help to push the club forward again and build on the stable footing we have implemented in the past two years.”
Dyche, who began his most recent spell as Everton manager in January 2023, closed his statement with well wishes for the club under its new ownership:
“I wish everyone well going forwards including the new owners, who I hope will take the club to the next level and deliver the success which every Evertonian wants.
“My part as a custodian has been played and I will forever take great pride in that. After going through some extremely difficult situations, I never lost faith in everyone around me and we did everything we could to protect the badge, safeguarding it and the name of Everton Football Club.”
In the immediate aftermath of Dyche’s exit, Everton legends Leighton Baines and Seamus Coleman stepped in to oversee a 2-0 victory over Peterborough in the FA Cup.
Moyes now prepares for his first test in his return to the club, with Aston Villa visiting Goodison Park in a Premier League showdown on Wednesday night.
