Everton put up for sale less than two years after Friedkin Group took charge

Everton’s owners have put the club up for sale after less than two years in charge to plunge the club into another period of uncertainty.

The Friedkin Group (TFG) were initially praised for the stability they brought after the chaotic reign of Farhad Moshiri, which led to points deductions for financial breaches and a number of scrapes with relegation.

However, after a number of cost-cutting measures to get the Toffees back on an even keel, the Americans – who also own Serie A side Roma – were criticised by fans for a lack of investment in the transfer market.

In September, David Moyes said he had never met or spoken to Houston-based chairman Dan Friedkin since returning as manager in January 2025 – a month after the takeover – and Friedkin has not attended an Everton game.

A club statement said: “The Friedkin Group is exploring new investment options for Everton Football Club, including the potential sale of a controlling interest.

“When TFG became custodians of Everton, the club faced significant financial uncertainty and challenges both on and off the pitch.

“The immediate priority was to provide the stability, investment and support needed to secure the club’s future, including helping to bring the long-promised stadium to completion for its deserving supporters.

“With that foundation now safely in place, the time is right to consider the next chapter for Everton. We will only entertain interest from parties who we strongly believe will be the right stewards to take the club forward and build on the momentum that has been established.

“Throughout this process, TFG’s focus will remain unchanged. We will support the club in all ways necessary to achieve success on the pitch and will continue efforts to make a positive difference in the communities the club serves.”

There were signs the fanbase were growing increasingly frustrated with the owners when they staged a protest late in the summer transfer window when the club tried to sell highly rated academy graduate Harrison Armstrong to Nottingham Forest.

Armstrong stayed but a difficult tramsfer deadline day only increased concerns about TFG.

A deal fell through for striker Folarin Balogun, hours after the sale of Beto to Fiorentina, to leave the club with one recognised but raw centre-forward in Thierno Barry.

Fans also felt, considering some of the prices being paid, the sale of Iliman Ndiaye to Manchester City for £65million undervalued Everton’s best player over the last two years.

But more concerning was the lack of reinforcements, leaving Moyes with a first-team squad of just 18 senior players.

A statement from Everton Shareholders’ Association welcomed Friday’s announcement.

“We wrote directly to Dan Friedkin on September 2nd and are pleased that today’s statement has removed some of the uncertainty. We look forward to a bright future for our football club,” it said.

Published: 09/10/2026 by Radio NewsHub