Everton FC is one of the most successful clubs in English football history. Over the years, the club has been led by several managers who have left their mark on the team’s legacy. Managers in Everton FC’s history have shaped the club’s identity, success, and future. From bringing home league titles to overseeing unforgettable moments, these managers have played crucial roles in Everton’s journey.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the best managers in Everton FC’s history, whose influence still resonates today.
1. Howard Kendall
Undoubtedly, one of the greatest managers in Everton FC’s history is Howard Kendall. He is a true Everton legend, both as a player and as a manager. Kendall’s most notable achievement came during the 1980s when he led Everton to two First Division titles (1984-85 and 1986-87), an FA Cup win in 1984, and the European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1985.
Kendall’s tactical genius and his ability to inspire the team were key to Everton’s success during this golden era. His teams were known for their fast attacking play and solid defense. Even after leaving Everton, Kendall returned for another spell in the 1990s, though the success he enjoyed in the 80s has defined his managerial legacy.
His first stint remains iconic, and his influence on the club is undeniable. Howard Kendall’s contribution to Everton’s history is often cited as the peak of the club’s success in the modern era.
2. David Moyes
David Moyes is another manager who significantly shaped the direction of Everton FC. Appointed in 2002, Moyes spent 11 years at the helm, becoming one of the longest-serving managers in the club’s history. During his tenure, he built a reputation for fostering a strong, hard-working team and for consistently achieving above expectations with limited resources.
Although Moyes did not win any major trophies with Everton, he achieved considerable success. Under his leadership, Everton regularly finished in the top half of the Premier League, including a notable fourth-place finish in 2005, securing qualification for the UEFA Champions League. Moyes also produced some impressive cup runs, with the team reaching the FA Cup final in 2009.
Moyes’ greatest achievement was perhaps his ability to develop young talents and get the best out of his players. His legacy at the club is one of steady progress, consistency, and a deep connection to the fans.
3. Dixie Dean (Player-Manager)
While Dixie Dean is best known for his legendary career as a player, it’s worth mentioning his time as a player-manager in 1938-1939. Dean, who scored an incredible 383 goals for Everton, took over managerial duties for a brief period. Although his stint was short-lived due to World War II, his leadership and experience played an important role in the club’s post-war recovery.
4. Colin Harvey
Harvey took charge after Kendall’s departure in the 1980s and managed the team during a transitional period. Despite not winning any major trophies, Harvey helped keep Everton competitive and steady in the top division.
His time as a manager was also marked by an emphasis on youth development. Under Harvey’s guidance, players like Duncan Ferguson and other future stars made their first-team debuts. His ability to maintain a solid team through a difficult period helped pave the way for future successes.
5. Walter Smith
Walter Smith had two spells as Everton’s manager: one in the 1990s and another in the early 2000s. While Smith did not have the same level of success as Kendall or Moyes, he made important contributions to the club during his time. Smith helped stabilize Everton’s position in the Premier League after a few tough seasons and built a strong, resilient team.
His tenure saw Everton improve defensively, and although the club didn’t win any major trophies, his leadership helped restore the team’s competitive edge. Smith’s ability to keep Everton afloat in difficult circumstances, including during the financial struggles of the late 1990s, cemented his place in Everton’s managerial history.
6. Joe Royle
Joe Royle is one of Everton’s most beloved managers. Appointed in 1994, Royle took over a team that was struggling in the league and delivered instant success. In his first full season, Royle led Everton to an FA Cup victory in 1995, defeating Manchester United 1-0 in the final. This remains one of the most memorable moments in the club’s recent history.
Royle was known for his passion, direct style of football, and his ability to lift the spirits of his players. He not only secured silverware but also helped to stabilize the club during difficult times. His connection with the fans and the success he brought to the club makes him one of the best managers in Everton FC’s history.
7. Roberto Martínez
Roberto Martínez managed Everton from 2013 to 2016 and played a pivotal role in reinvigorating the club’s attacking style of play. Under his guidance, Everton played some of the most exciting football the club had seen in years. Martínez helped develop an entertaining brand of football, often focusing on possession-based, attacking strategies.
While his time at Everton saw mixed results, with some inconsistencies in defense, Martínez’s biggest achievement was leading the team to a 5th-place finish in the 2013-14 season, just missing out on a Champions League spot. Martínez also played a role in helping young talents like Ross Barkley and John Stones develop into key players for Everton. His contributions to Everton’s history were significant, even if his tenure ended prematurely.
Conclusion
From Howard Kendall’s golden era to David Moyes’ steady leadership, each manager has played a vital role in the club’s success and development. Some, like Kendall, brought silverware and dominance in the league, while others, like Royle and Martínez, helped shape the club’s identity and style of play.
No matter the era, the managers in Everton FC’s history have all made lasting contributions. Their legacy lives on in the hearts of Everton fans and the future of the club.