Roberto Martinez’s sacking was hardly a surprise. The former Everton boss had lost more games than the fans would accept and the team was, worryingly, heading in the wrong direction. A talented squad was being wasted and the successes of West Ham and Leicester had just rubbed salt into the Goodison Park wounds.
The search for the new manager is now on. From the unemployed Manuel Pellegrini to the embarrassed David Moyes, there have been rumours circulating since Martinez’s sacking. However, Unai Emery, the recent Europa League winner, is thought to be the key candidate for Everton.
Options are widespread, the club may well have a serious transfer kitty and the current squad has huge potential. Attracting managers will not be as challenging as it may’ve been in the bad ol’ days for the Toffees. A mid-table finish doesn’t do the club justice and it is time to show ambition.
Emery is their man, you’d hope. So, here are FIVE reasons he’s the perfect appointment…
No stone unturned
Emery is renowned for his meticulous approach to management.
For all the mocking of Van Gaal’s e-mails or dossiers, planning defines a manager. Jose Mourinho is one the greatest at scouting out the weaknesses of the opposition and Pep Guardiola will train new tactics endlessly, Emery’s preparation will surely teach an inexperienced Everton squad a fair few things.
European credentials
As Sevilla defeated Everton’s arch rivals in the Europa League final a week or so ago, Emery wrote his name, and the team’s, into the record books.
Three back-to-back Europa League titles is an unprecedented achievement. A stunning process of squad management, prioritisation and tactical nous to win so regularly in a knockout competition, so Emery has proven himself far above many others.
Back to the future
At just 44, Emery does not carry the geriatric stubbornness that older managers can be lumbered with.
Although he has been in management for over a decade, it is the blend of experience and a, relatively, young age that make Emery the force he is.
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All about the numbers
Stats are everything in the modern game. The increased presence of analytics is only benefiting everyone’s understanding of the beautiful game, but it is sometimes the most simple ones that are most beautiful.
Emery has a pretty impressive record across all the clubs he has managed and, in true Tim Sherwood style, damn good win percentages. Winning over 50% of his games as Sevilla manager, the potential new Everton boss has been a winner throughout his career. As opposed to the survival instincts of David Moyes or the relegation battling experience of Martinez, he would be a breath of fresh air.
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Tables turning
Everton have made some rather canny signings over the years, although their budget has also meant that there have been some utter howlers too.
Emery would bring a reputation to the club that could allow them to compete much more in the market. His time in Spain, along with a brief spell in Russia, put him in good stead to eye up potential targets.
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