It feels a long time since Charly Alcaraz first arrived at Everton and immediately looked like he might become a fan favourite.
Energy, aggression and unpredictability. Evertonians liked him.
He scored against Crystal Palace on his first Premier League start, contributed at both ends of the pitch and did more than enough during his loan from Flamengo to convince Everton to make the move permanent. There was also that goal at St James’ Park.
The deal was worth €15m, potentially rising by another €3m. At just 22 when Everton signed him permanently, there was every reason to think there was plenty more to come. It hasn’t quite happened.
Alcaraz struggling for Everton minutes
Injuries disrupted Alcaraz last season and undoubtedly played their part, but he still finished the campaign having started only six Premier League games. His position now looks even more curious.
Alcaraz has made two very brief substitute appearances in Everton’s opening three league games this season and was left on the bench for Sunday’s 2-2 draw with Manchester United.
Competition for midfield places has increased, but it is still quite a change from those heady early days when his directness looked, at the time, like something Everton badly needed.
There is still a useful player in there. We argued in June that selling Alcaraz would be a mistake, and at 23 there is plenty of time for that argument to be proven right.
But he needs to play.
Our Everton player stats tracker will show whether those opportunities begin to arrive. For now, one of the more intriguing signings of Moyes’ second spell has become a bit of a forgotten man.
The next few months should tell us more.
For updates on the Toffees throughout the season, take a look at our LIVE! Premier League 2026/27 News, Transfers, Updates & Viral Moments page.
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