Former international Hitzlsperger reveals David Moyes’ elite Everton leadership.
Ex-Germany star explains how David Moyes transformed Everton’s team culture.
Hitzlsperger shares insider insights on David Moyes’ managerial genius.
Thomas Hitzlsperger enjoyed a distinguished career across Europe. The former Germany international played for Aston Villa, Stuttgart, Lazio, West Ham and Wolfsburg, earning 52 caps for his country. But it was a short stint at Everton towards the end of his playing days that left a lasting impression, not for the minutes on the pitch, but for the man in the dugout.
Hitzlsperger joined Everton in 2012, just before his retirement. He made only nine appearances for the Toffees, but working under David Moyes gave him a new perspective on how Moyes led Everton.
Now a board member of Italian Serie A side Hellas Verona, the 43‑year‑old has reflected on what made Moyes such an effective manager.
‘People listened because they trusted him’
, Hitzlsperger said, “Towards the end of my career, I joined Everton Football Club. It wasn’t a period where I played a lot, but I learned quite a bit in a different way. Working under David Moyes gave me a new perspective on leadership. What stood out wasn’t tactics. It was how he ran the club day to day.
“He had a very clear sense of what was going on, and there was a calm authority about him. People listened because they trusted him, not because they had to.”
Hitzlsperger noted Moyes’ ability to delegate and empower others. “At the same time, he didn’t try to control everything himself. He understood where he added the most value and where others could take responsibility. That balance isn’t easy to get right, but he managed it well.”
David Moyes had alot to offer just by observing him
Despite limited game time, the German looks back on his Everton spell fondly. “I didn’t get as many minutes as I would have liked that season, but I still look back on it positively because sometimes you learn just as much from observing how people lead as you do from being on the pitch.
Hitzlsperger praised David Moyes for the environment at Everton
Hitzlsperger’s words offer a fascinating insight into Moyes’ management style, one that has served him well across two spells at Everton.
David Moyes returned to Goodison Park, and now Hill Dickinson Stadium in 2025 and has once again transformed the club’s fortunes, turning relegation contenders into European hopefuls.
His ability to command respect without fear, to delegate without losing control, and to build a culture where players want to perform were witnessed firsthand by Hitzlsperger. And they remain the foundation of Everton’s resurgence today.
As the Toffees prepare for their final two Premier League games with European qualification still possible, Moyes’ calm authority will be needed more than ever. Hitzlsperger’s testimony is a reminder of why so many players and staff have thrived under his leadership.
Shumail Sajid
Shumail Sajid is a dedicated and expert writer covering various teams, most recently, Everton, with a keen eye for team developments, match analysis, and the latest news. With three years of experience as a football writer, he provides interesting, insightful coverage that resonate with fans. Beyond writing, he is a passionate football follower, frequently attending matches and exploring football culture. Follow his work for in-depth yet fan-friendly analysis, and feel free to share your thoughts, even if you disagree! Connect with him on @shumail1434 on X
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