Former Everton striker Richarlison will return to Merseyside this weekend, and there may be a little bit of tension in the air with David Moyes.
Everton are back in Premier League action on Sunday afternoon as they play host to Tottenham at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
It’ll be Richarlison’s first visit to the new stadium, and he’s expected to get a great reception among the supporters, as he always does.
Although, the Brazil international may have some frosty feelings towards Moyes due to a transfer situation that unfolded earlier this year.
Richarlison centre-forward of Tottenham and Brazil during the UEFA Europa League Final 2025 against Manchester United.
Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images
David Moyes blocked Richarlison from returning to Everton
Ahead of the summer transfer window, it was reported that Everton were exploring a deal to re-sign Richarlison.
And, Richarlison was seemingly open to rejoining the Toffees, as he appeared to tease supporters over a potential homecoming on social media.
But, despite reputable brands suggesting Everton were pursuing a move for the striker, Moyes emphatically put an end to that rumour.
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Speaking back in May, Moyes said: “Richarlison is a really good player and someone I’ve liked. But I can only tell you there is zero truth in that from my side.”
💬 "There's zero truth in that from my side."
🗣️ #EFC manager, David Moyes, reacts to reports linking Richarlison with a return to the club, and Abdoulaye Doucoure's future
#⃣ #FULEVE #TotalSport
— BBC Sport Merseyside (@bbcmerseysport) May 9, 2025
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Perhaps there was a disagreement between Moyes and the recruitment team, but either way, it’s clear the Scotsman wasn’t prepared to sanction a Richarlison transfer.
As such, the Spurs centre-forward may feel a little aggrieved ahead of his trip to the Hill Dickinson on Sunday.
Everton left to rue Richarlison transfer decision
Instead of re-signing Richarlison, Moyes opted for the more unproven but promising centre-forward Thierno Barry.
Everton shelled out a hefty £30m on his signature from Villarreal, and so far, the Frenchman has been less than convincing.
Although, Thierry Henry reckons there are positive signs that he will improve and has a solid base to work from.
In September, Moyes explained that he doesn’t want to put too much pressure on the 23-year-old, which has prompted him to start Beto more often than not.
“I’m also introducing a boy who has not played in the Premier League, a centre-forward, I should say who has not played in the Premier League.
“I want to give him the opportunities to see what he can do and if he can keep stepping up. But I don’t want to put too much pressure on him straight away to be, you know, to show.”