The Friedkin Group (TFG), led by American billionaire Dan Friedkin, has officially acquired a majority stake in Everton Football Club, marking the end of Farhad Moshiri's tenure and the beginning of a transformative chapter for the Merseyside team.
Dan Friedkin, also the owner of Serie A club AS Roma and with a net worth of $6.1 billion (£4.8 billion), brings a wealth of experience in sports management to Goodison Park. Marc Watts, the incoming executive chairman, hailed the acquisition as a “momentous and proud occasion.”
“Becoming custodians of this iconic football club is a great honor for The Friedkin Group,” Watts said in a statement. “Providing financial stability has been a key priority, and while restoring Everton to its rightful place in the Premier League will take time, this is the first step toward that journey.”
Outgoing majority shareholder Farhad Moshiri expressed optimism about the future under TFG’s stewardship. "I believe the transaction with The Friedkin Group is the best outcome for the club’s success," Moshiri said. Reflecting on his tenure, he highlighted efforts to stabilize Everton’s finances, enhance its sporting infrastructure, and progress on the club’s new stadium project.
“I now hand over to new owners confident in the club’s future and that our incredible fans will finally see the success they deserve,” Moshiri added.
The deal concludes an 18-month period of speculation involving various potential buyers, including MSP Sports Capital and 777 Partners, before The Friedkin Group emerged as the final buyer.
Alan Myers, a reporter for Sky Sports News, emphasized that while the takeover brings fresh hope, the new owners face significant challenges. "Many of the issues they dealt with at Roma are similar to those at Everton: underperforming teams, a rich history, and a passionate fan base hungry for success," Myers explained.
TFG’s experience at Roma includes both successes and setbacks, such as silverware under manager José Mourinho but lingering questions about long-term stability—something Everton fans are eager to see addressed.
Everton’s decline from its historic glory days has left fans yearning for change. With the Friedkin Group at the helm, supporters hope for financial stability, a return to competitiveness in the Premier League, and progress toward the completion of the club’s state-of-the-art stadium.
Marc Watts reiterated TFG’s commitment to both immediate and long-term priorities. “We aim to secure Everton’s place in the Premier League while building a strong foundation for growth on and off the pitch,” he said.
As the new era begins, Evertonians will be watching closely to see how TFG’s leadership shapes the club’s future, aiming to restore its identity and reputation in English football.
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