Everton’s European Push: Can Moyes Deliver Champions League Football?

Everton manager David Moyes has acknowledged the unexpected possibility of European qualification for the Toffees, despite the club’s recent focus on avoiding relegation. Currently eighth in the Premier League, Everton are just three points off the top five with seven league games remaining.

While cautious about predicting a Champions League berth – a competition the club hasn’t participated in since the 1970-71 European Cup – Moyes emphasized the significance of even securing any form of European football. “I’d love to say it was [a possibility] as I’m trying to be more positive than I would normally be, but for Everton to even be in the mix for Europe is unbelievable, whether it is Conference League or Champions League,” he said.

Moyes highlighted the club’s transformation over the past year, noting a shift from battling relegation to contending for European places. He pointed to the challenges overcome, including new ownership and a significant number of players with expiring contracts. According to web search results, Moyes is currently in his second spell as Everton manager, having returned in 2025 after a distinguished career managing several other Premier League clubs, including West Ham United and Manchester United.

The manager expressed confidence in the impact European football would have on the club’s supporters. “I can imagine, if we could possibly do it, what it would do for the crowds here as Evertonians are desperate to get back amongst it,” he stated. He similarly indicated a top-10 finish would represent a successful season, adding that the team would “try and give ourselves a chance of getting in the European competitions.”

Everton’s recent resurgence under Moyes follows a period of struggle, with the club frequently facing relegation threats. The club has competed sporadically in Europe in the 21st century, most recently appearing in the 2017-18 Europa League. Moyes, who previously managed Everton from 2002 to 2013, was recognized as the League Managers Association Manager of the Year in 2003, 2005, and 2009, according to verified information.