Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s extraordinary run of form continued in today’s 15:00 kick-off against Brighton with the 23-year-old English striker scoring again, taking his goal tally in the Premier League to 6 within 4 games. Under Carlo Ancelotti, who was appointed manager back in December 2019, Everton have since strengthened. Despite the Toffees finishing 12th last season, transfers have helped to bolster Everton, earning themselves a place at the top of the Premier League table as a result of winning all their opening games so far. Ancelotti has now been provided with the funds to strengthen his squad, focusing mostly on his midfield three.
James Rodriguez has been the most notable addition, for around £20m on a 2-year contract. Rodriguez has hit the ground running with 3 goals and 2 assists in 4 appearances, showing how age has barely impacted the Colombian since his unforgettable performance in the 2014 World Cup, where he won the Golden Boot. Alongside Rodriguez, Ancelotti has also recruited recently relegated Abdoulaye Doucoure who had a great season at Watford, expressing his capability as a box-to-box midfielder. Similar to Doucoure is Brazilian midfielder Allan, a player who has acted as an engine of a midfielder since his arrival to Goodison Park from Italian giants Napoli for around £21.7m.
Familiar faces that feature within the Everton backline will be sure to implement experience and leadership, with Premier League veteran Seamus Coleman and 2018 World Cup hero Jordan Pickford. Despite Everton’s defence not being as world class when being compared to the other Merseyside team, Ancelotti’s team has looked rather compact, playing appealing football.
Under Ancelotti, Everton could possibly secure a place in Europe this season, depending solely on injuries and who leaves the club. With only 4 games played in the Premier League, it is hard to forecast where Everton will finish, however they have great potential due to an outstanding midfield and an in-form striker in Calvert-Lewin. Ancelotti has had a decorated career, managing some of the successful teams in world football– Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain. His experience will help fans of the Toffees look forward to winning again.
Whilst it is unlikely that Everton will compete for the top 4 this season, Europa League is well within their reach, especially considering Ancelotti’s football philosophy coming into play in addition to his new midfield and the vast improvement in Dominic Calvert-Lewin as a number 9.