The 2025/26 season is upon us, and Everton fans are eagerly awaiting the first match of the campaign, which will see the Toffees face newly-promoted Leeds United. As we dive into Everton’s predicted line-up for this crucial opening fixture, there are several factors to consider, including recent injuries, new signings, and manager David Moyes’ tactical approach.
With an unsettled right-wing position and uncertainty in the full-back department, there are questions surrounding Everton’s starting XI. Here, we’ll explore the possible formations, the key players who are expected to feature, and the tactics that could define the Toffees’ approach this season.
Everton’s Current Squad: Injuries and Uncertainties
As we look ahead to the upcoming match, let’s first take a look at Everton’s squad and the key players that might feature in the predicted line-up. While the Toffees are gearing up for a challenging season, the squad is still very much a work in progress, and some players have faced injury setbacks during preseason.
Key Injuries and Doubts
- Jarrad Branthwaite: The young central defender has picked up a knock in training, and his return timetable remains unclear. His absence leaves a gap in the defense that might force Moyes to rely on other players.
- Vitaliy Mykolenko: The left-back was forced off early during a friendly against AS Roma due to injury. Moyes has suggested that he might still be available for the season opener, but there’s uncertainty over his fitness.
- Patterson (Doubt): Another player with a doubtful status is Nathan Patterson, the right-back. If he’s unable to start, Moyes will need to make adjustments at the full-back position.
- Jack Grealish (Fitness Concern): One of the biggest questions surrounding Everton’s predicted line-up is the fitness of Jack Grealish. The attacking midfielder’s availability could impact Everton’s formation and tactics, with Grealish offering much-needed creativity and flair.
Everton’s Predicted Line Up Against Leeds
With these considerations in mind, let’s explore how Everton might line up for their opening match against Leeds United. The tactics will likely depend on player availability and David Moyes’ preferred formation, which could fluctuate between a 4-2-3-1, 4-3-3, or a 3-4-2-1, as seen in preseason.
Goalkeeper
- Jordan Pickford (10/10)
There is no question that Jordan Pickford will start between the posts. The England international remains Everton’s first-choice goalkeeper, and his performances in recent seasons have solidified his spot as the undisputed number one. Pickford’s shot-stopping ability and leadership at the back will be crucial for the Toffees this season.
Defenders
- Jake O’Brien (10/10)
Jake O’Brien, who has impressed in preseason, is likely to start in the center of defense, especially with Jarrad Branthwaite‘s fitness in doubt. His solid performances should earn him a starting role alongside the experienced James Tarkowski. - James Tarkowski (10/10)
The towering central defender James Tarkowski will surely start in the heart of defense. Tarkowski is one of the most reliable defenders in the squad and is expected to anchor Everton’s backline throughout the season. - Michael Keane (7/10)
While Michael Keane has had a rough preseason, he may still feature in the starting XI due to his experience. However, Jake O’Brien‘s strong performances in preseason could see him claim a starting role over Keane, depending on Moyes’ tactical preferences. - Vitaliy Mykolenko (6/10)
If Mykolenko is fit to play, he will most likely start at left-back. However, given his recent injury scare, there is a chance that Adam Aznou could be called upon if the Ukrainian is not fit. Mykolenko’s attacking runs and solid defending make him a valuable asset for the Toffees. - Nathan Patterson (Doubt)
Should Patterson be fit, he will occupy the right-back position, offering pace and defensive solidity on the right-hand side. If Patterson is unavailable, Seamus Coleman or Adam Aznou could step in.
Midfielders
- Idrissa Gana Gueye (10/10)
Idrissa Gana Gueye is a lock for a starting position in the double pivot. His defensive presence, intercepting ability, and experience make him a key figure in Everton’s midfield. Gueye will be tasked with breaking up opposition attacks and providing stability in the middle of the park. - James Garner (8/10)
After a successful season with the Toffees last year, James Garner is expected to feature in the central midfield, alongside Gueye. His vision, passing range, and work rate will be important for Everton’s build-up play. - Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall (8/10)
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall‘s versatility will allow him to play a key role in midfield. Whether he’s used in a more advanced #10 position or a deeper role, his ability to dictate play and press defensively will be vital for Everton. His place in the starting XI is almost guaranteed, but the specific role he plays could vary. - Tim Iroegbunam (Doubt)
Tim Iroegbunam will be one to watch, though his spot in the starting line-up is uncertain at the moment. If he plays, he could add energy and dynamism to the midfield, especially as a box-to-box player.
Wingers and Forwards
- Iliman Ndiaye (9/10)
Iliman Ndiaye is expected to start on one of the wings, likely the left, where he can use his speed and dribbling skills to stretch the opposition defense. His ability to cut inside and create chances makes him one of the most exciting players in the Everton squad. - Carlos Alcaraz (7/10)
Carlos Alcaraz has shown flashes of brilliance but remains somewhat inconsistent. If Jack Grealish is not fit to play, Alcaraz might start on the right-wing, offering pace and attacking thrust, though Grealish‘s eventual fitness will determine his role in the starting XI. - Jack Grealish (Fitness Concerns)
If Jack Grealish is fit for the opening match, he could start on the left-wing or as a more central attacking midfielder. His creativity, dribbling, and experience will be vital for Everton’s attacking play this season. However, Grealish’s fitness is a major factor, and Moyes might prefer to ease him into the starting XI if he is not fully match-fit. - Beto (9/10)
The #9 shirt belongs to Beto, and he will be Everton’s primary striker. His physicality, aerial ability, and finishing will be crucial for the Toffees this season. Beto is expected to lead the line and provide a focal point in attack. His work rate and ability to bring others into play will make him an essential part of Everton’s offensive strategy.
Everton Predicted Line Up: Potential Formation and Tactics
David Moyes has employed several formations during Everton’s preseason, including the 3-4-2-1, 4-3-3, and 4-2-3-1 systems. Depending on the availability of key players like Mykolenko and Patterson, Moyes will choose a formation that balances defensive solidity with attacking potency.
Formation 1: 3-4-2-1
In this formation, the back three of Tarkowski, Keane, and O’Brien would provide a solid defensive foundation, with Gueye and Garner sitting in front of them as the two central midfielders. Dewsbury-Hall could play in the #10 role, with Ndiaye and Alcaraz or Grealish providing support for Beto in attack.
Formation 2: 4-2-3-1
If Mykolenko is fit, Everton could opt for a more traditional 4-2-3-1 formation. The back four would feature Patterson and Mykolenko as the full-backs, with Tarkowski and Keane in central defense. Gueye and Garner would anchor the midfield, with Dewsbury-Hall in the #10 role and Ndiaye and Alcaraz flanking Beto.
Formation 3: 4-3-3
The 4-3-3 system would see Pickford in goal, with Patterson, Tarkowski, Keane, and Mykolenko (if fit) in defense. Gueye, Garner, and Dewsbury-Hall would form the midfield three, with Ndiaye and Alcaraz/Grealish playing wide and Beto as the central striker.
Conclusion: What to Expect from Everton’s Line Up
As Everton prepares for the 2025/26 season, their predicted line-up will be shaped by tactical choices, player fitness, and the competition for starting positions. With Jordan Pickford cementing his place as the first-choice goalkeeper and key players like Beto and Ndiaye ready to make an impact, Everton’s squad has the potential to challenge for a solid mid-table finish. The key factors will be how well players like Grealish, Mykolenko, and Patterson recover from injuries, and whether Moyes can get the best out of his versatile midfield options.
Everton’s tactical flexibility will be key to their success, and fans can expect an exciting season as the team looks to establish itself as a competitive force in the Premier League.
FAQs
Q1: What formation will David Moyes likely use for Everton’s opening match?
Moyes could opt for a 4-2-3-1 or 3-4-2-1 formation depending on the fitness of key players like Mykolenko and Patterson.
Q2: Who are the key players in Everton’s predicted line-up?
Jordan Pickford, Beto, Iliman Ndiaye, and Idrissa Gana Gueye are expected to be crucial players in the starting XI.
Q3: Will Jack Grealish start for Everton?
Grealish’s availability is still uncertain due to fitness concerns, but if fit, he will likely feature in the starting line-up.
Q4: What is Everton’s main tactical approach under David Moyes?
Moyes is known for his defensive solidity and pragmatic approach. The team will focus on a balanced setup, with strong defensive foundations and a midfield capable of controlling possession.
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