David Moyes Has 3 Major Issues at Everton

Everton suffered a defeat away at Chelsea on Saturday afternoon, and it once again highlighted some glaring issues that are preventing the Toffees from going to the next level.

David Moyes’ side have endured an inconsistent season so far. Although the Merseyside club have picked up some phenomenal results, they’ve also shown their weaknesses and struggled at times. Overall, it’s been a strong season for Everton, and although they’ve got an exciting squad in some areas, there are some issues that need addressing long-term.

Moyes has Everton competing in the top half of the Premier League table, which is certainly progress from recent years. If they want to go to the next level, then reinforcements over the next couple of transfer windows will be necessary.

Right-Back Problem Needs Solving

The right-back position has been a major issue for Everton for many years now, and it’s an area of the pitch that they’ve failed to address. As it stands, Jake O’Brien is Everton’s number one option on the right-hand side of defence, but the Republic of Ireland international is naturally a centre-back, and it shows.

O’Brien has done a reasonable job since Moyes opted to play him at full-back, but when in the final third, he doesn’t have the same instincts or creative ability as a natural in this position. That was evident against Chelsea and has been all season, and the Toffees need to find a new right-back in 2026.

Everton Have a Problem on the Other Side

Although a slightly different issue, Everton also have a problem at left-back. Vitalii Mykolenko is a natural in this position, but if Everton want to progress, they need to find an upgrade. Moyes clearly doesn’t trust Adam Aznou, and with Mykolenko’s contract expiring next summer, it’s time for them to cash in and take their side to the next level.

Mykolenko is a reliable defender the majority of the time, but he can be suspect at the back. Going forward, the Ukrainian international offers next to nothing, which hampers the Toffees and makes things tricky for Jack Grealish, as he’s often left isolated on the left-hand side of attack.

Midfield Progression a Key Issue

Although Everton have some midfield options who are comfortable keeping possession and don’t give it away too often, the lack of progression from deep has become a problem. James Garner and Idrissa Gueye are Moyes’ preferred midfielders at the moment, and although, as mentioned, they don’t give the ball away too often, it’s mainly down to the lack of risk taken with their passing.

Everton need a midfielder who is going to try and break lines, progressing the play centrally and getting their attackers into dangerous position. Perhaps less important than the full-back problems, but it’s another area Everton need to address.