David Moyes was unable to keep one Everton star at the club
(Credit: Imago)
Jack Dawson
Fri 23 May 2025 17:56, UK
Everton are set to overhaul their squad this summer as David Moyes takes part in his first pre-season since returning to the Toffees.
Multiple stars are expected to leave the Toffees this summer ahead of a massive squad rebuild.
Players such as Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Seamus Coleman are currently out of contract this summer, with their future unknown.
However, this hasn’t stopped Moyes from attempting to keep some players at Merseyside.
Everton
Abdoulaye Doucoure has been a regular at Everton for years (Credit: Imago)
David Moyes confirms Abdoulaye Doucoure rejected chance to stay at Everton
One of the players who is set to leave Everton this summer is Abdoulaye Doucoure.
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The midfielder has been at the Merseyside club since 2020 and has been a regular in the starting XI.
Under Moyes, Doucoure hit form once again, and has been vital in pulling the Toffees away from the relegation zone.
At just 32 years old, the Mali international could have easily done at job at Everton next season, and Moyes has admitted that he wanted to keep Doucoure at the Toffees.
Abdoulaye Doucoure’s stats at Everton
Appearances 165
Goals 21
Assists 14
Red cards 2
Doucoure has been a reliable player at Everton for many years
In his press conference before the Newcastle match, according to the Liverpool Echo (23 May), the manager said: “I think he’s been a great servant to the club, he’s done a great job over many years here. We made him an offer and he’s got a better one to go elsewhere. So, from that point of view, we have to live with that.
“I remember him greatly from his Watford days and here as well. I can only say from since I’ve been here, he’s been really good. We’ve just about selected him in every game we’ve played, so we’ll miss him, and I’ve got no hard feelings from his decision.”
Everton
Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s contract also runs out soon. (Credit: Imago)
Doucoure’s Everton rejection unsurprising
Before the midfielder’s departure was confirmed, it was reported that Everton had offered Doucoure a deal, but with a wage cut.
Therefore, it is unsurprising that the 32-year-old has rejected terms, especially with better offers available elsewhere.
Leeds United have been linked with Doucoure, which could mean that he is still able to play Premier League football while being paid more.
It is a tad concerning however, that Everton did not go in with a better offer for the midfielder and instead, just let him go to a potential Premier League rival.
However, wherever the midfielder ends up, Everton fans should be grateful for his service to the Merseyside club as he has proven to be a sensational player over the years.
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