AS Roma owners, the Friedkin Group, are currently engaged in exclusive discussions to acquire Everton, as confirmed by the Premier League club. This comes after a previous takeover agreement with 777 Partners fell through. The Friedkin Group, based in the United States, already own Italian Serie A club Roma, making them prominent figures in the football ownership landscape.
Last year, 777 Partners had announced a deal to acquire a 94.1% stake in Everton from British-Iranian billionaire Moshiri. However, the agreement faced obstacles and ultimately expired, leaving the club in a state of uncertainty. Moshiri, who initially bought a 49.9% stake in Everton in 2016, aimed to bring stability and success to the club through substantial investments.
During the 2023-24 season, Everton faced challenges both on and off the pitch. The club was penalized twice for breaching the Premier League’s Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR), resulting in point deductions. These setbacks not only affected their league standing but also raised concerns about the club’s financial management and long-term sustainability.
The ongoing discussions with the Friedkin Group highlight the uncertainty surrounding Everton’s ownership and future direction. As the club strives to regain stability and competitiveness in the Premier League, a potential takeover could bring significant changes and investment opportunities. However, the failed attempts and financial struggles serve as a reminder of the complexities involved in football ownership and management.
Everton’s journey towards a potential takeover by the Friedkin Group reflects the challenges and uncertainties faced by modern football clubs. As the club navigates through financial difficulties and on-pitch performance issues, the need for sustainable ownership and strategic planning becomes increasingly crucial. The outcome of the current discussions will undoubtedly shape Everton’s future trajectory and determine its position in the competitive landscape of English football.