Dan Friedkin buys Everton, ending Farhad Moshiri's controversial ownership

The takeover of Everton Football Club by the Friedkin Group is set for completion next week in the UK. This acquisition marks the end of Farhad Moshiri's ownership, which has been under scrutiny due to the club’s financial struggles. The Friedkin Group, led by American billionaire Dan Friedkin, has been in discussions for this purchase since September, acquiring a significant 94.1 percent stake from Moshiri. Approval from the Premier League has been the final step in this process, which has reportedly been in motion for about three months. This takeover comes at a critical time for Everton, as the club is grappling with substantial financial difficulties, raising questions about its long-term sustainability and management direction. Under Moshiri’s ownership, the club has faced numerous challenges, including relegation battles and concerns over investment in the squad. The transition in ownership is also poised to have implications for the current management structure. Sean Dyche, the club's manager, and Kevin Thelwell, the sporting director, are both out of contract at the end of the ongoing season. With the Friedkin Group also running AS Roma in Italy, there are expectations surrounding future investments in Everton aimed at rejuvenating the club and stabilizing its finances. Speculation about player acquisitions and staff appointments is likely to intensify as the new ownership is established. The new owners will primarily focus on assessing the club’s current financial health while evaluating the managerial situation that may influence strategic decisions moving forward. The Friedkin Group's overarching goal appears to be restoring Everton's status in English football while ensuring fiscal responsibility. As the transition unfolds, supporters and stakeholders alike will be closely watching how this new ownership shapes the future of the club both on and off the pitch.