Everton has had many great managers who left their mark on the club’s history. These men guided the team to glory, built strong squads, and created unforgettable moments. In this post, we’ll take a look at some of the greatest Everton managers and how they shaped the club.
Howard Kendall: The Architect of Success
Howard Kendall is widely regarded as one of the greatest Everton managers. He led the team to many successes in the 1980s. Under Kendall, Everton won two league titles (1985, 1987) and an FA Cup (1984). He also helped the club reach the European Cup Winners’ Cup final.
Kendall’s teams played exciting, attacking football. He built a strong squad that dominated English football. His leadership and vision made him a true Everton legend.
David Moyes: Stability and Consistency
David Moyes is another of Everton’s greatest managers. He took over in 2002 and managed the club for 11 years. Moyes brought stability and consistency to Everton. He guided the team to top-half finishes year after year and regularly competed in Europe.
Under Moyes, Everton’s defense was solid, and the team was tough to beat. He also helped develop young talent, like Leighton Baines and Seamus Coleman. While he didn’t win major trophies, his work at Everton earned him widespread respect.
Dixie Dean: A Manager and A Player
Dixie Dean is remembered as one of the greatest players in Everton’s history. However, he also had a stint as the club’s manager. Dean was in charge for a brief period in the 1930s. Despite his short time as manager, his impact was felt.
Dean led Everton to an FA Cup victory in 1933. His leadership on and off the pitch made him a true icon of the club. While his managerial career was short, his legacy as both a player and manager remains strong.
Joe Royle: The Toffees’ FA Cup Hero
Joe Royle made history as Everton’s manager by winning the FA Cup in 1995. Under Royle, Everton defeated Manchester United 1-0 in the final, securing the club’s first major trophy in years. Royle took over when the club was struggling, and he transformed the team.
Royle’s focus on defense and team spirit helped Everton return to winning ways. He not only won the FA Cup but also guided the team to Premier League safety. His success in the 1995 FA Cup final remains a highlight of his managerial career.
Carlo Ancelotti: A Star in Modern Times
Carlo Ancelotti, one of the most experienced and successful managers in world football, took over at Everton in 2019. His arrival was a significant moment for the club. Ancelotti brought with him a wealth of experience from top clubs like AC Milan, Chelsea, and Real Madrid.
Under Ancelotti, Everton showed signs of progress, playing exciting football. The team improved in both attack and defense. Ancelotti’s ability to manage top-tier players and his knowledge of the game made him one of the greatest managers in recent times for Everton.
Conclusion
Everton has been lucky to have some of the best managers in football. From Howard Kendall’s success in the 1980s to David Moyes’ consistency and Carlo Ancelotti’s experience, these managers shaped the club’s identity. Their achievements, leadership, and passion for the game have left a lasting legacy. Everton’s greatest managers will always be remembered as key figures in the club’s rich history.