David Moyes is set to face Manchester United once again. He will lead Everton against them in a Premier League clash on 22 February 2025.
United arrive at Goodison Park, the home of Moyes’ Toffees, in dismal form. They are closer to the relegation zone than the top four. Their struggles highlight the deep-rooted issues that have plagued the club since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure.
On Easybet, Manchester United (47.77) has significantly shorter odds to be relegated than to win the Premier League title.
United’s Decline Since Moyes Left
David Moyes was sacked less than a season into his tenure at Old Trafford. Many blamed him for failing to continue Ferguson’s legacy. However, more than a decade later, United have continued to decline.
Several managers have tried to turn things around. Louis van Gaal, José Mourinho, Ole Gunnar Solskjær, Ralf Rangnick, and Erik ten Hag all struggled to bring lasting success. The club’s instability has only worsened.
The fact that United are currently languishing in 15th place proves that Moyes was not the sole problem. The club’s structural issues run far deeper. He inherited a team that was already ageing and in need of serious reinvestment.
Moyes’ Mistakes Were Not The Root Cause
Moyes made questionable decisions during his time at United. One of his biggest mistakes was dismantling Ferguson’s backroom staff. He replaced them with his team from Everton, disrupting the club’s long-standing system.
His tactical approach also failed to inspire. United lacked attacking fluidity under his leadership. Results suffered, and so did player morale.
However, blaming him entirely is unfair. The club has failed to build a clear identity in the post-Ferguson era. The current turmoil shows that managerial changes alone are not enough to fix deep-seated problems.
Moyes Has Rebuilt His Reputation
Moyes’ career could have ended after his United sacking. He struggled at Real Sociedad and Sunderland. However, his return to West Ham United proved he still had what it takes.
He transformed the Hammers into a competitive side. Under his management, they won the UEFA Europa Conference League. He also guided them to consistent finishes in the top half of the Premier League.
Now, he is back at Everton, a club where he once thrived. He has the chance to further cement his legacy. Facing United at this stage of their decline only adds to his vindication.
United’s Problems Go Beyond The Manager
United’s ownership remains a major issue. The Glazers have been heavily criticised for their handling of the club. Their focus on commercial success over sporting performance has led to continued failure on the pitch.
Recruitment has also been poor. United have spent massive amounts on transfers, yet few signings have truly delivered. The lack of a clear footballing structure has left them trailing behind their rivals.
Even now, with Ruben Amorim at the helm, the club looks lost. There is no clear vision or long-term strategy. Moyes may not have succeeded at Old Trafford, but it is now obvious that the problems run far deeper than his tenure.
Moyes vs. United: A Point To Prove
The upcoming match at Goodison Park is more than just another league fixture. Moyes will have a point to prove against his former employers. A win would further reinforce the argument that United’s struggles were not his fault.
Everton are not in the best shape either. However, they have shown resilience under Moyes. They will fancy their chances against a United side lacking confidence.
If Everton triumphs, it will serve as another reminder of United’s ongoing failures. Moyes was scapegoated in 2014. More than a decade later, the club still has not recovered.
As Moyes prepares to face his former club at Goodison Park, the narrative has shifted dramatically from that fateful 2014 season. What was once viewed as a failed succession of Sir Alex Ferguson’s legacy now stands as a testament to Manchester United’s deeper institutional problems. With United fighting relegation fears and Moyes rebuilding yet another Premier League club, this reunion serves as a powerful reminder that sometimes, the easiest answers aren’t always the right ones.
