The Friedkin Group has successfully acquired Everton, making them the 10th American owner of a Premier League team. The group, which already owns Roma, has paid approximately 400 million pounds (486 million euros) to take over the majority stake in the club. Previously, Everton was in the hands of Farhad Moshiri, a billionaire Iranian businessman.
Moshiri initially bought 49% of Everton in 2016 through a deal with Russian businessman Usmanov. However, he had to expand his purchase to 94% in 2022 after Usmanov sold his share due to the war against Ukraine. On September 23, Friedkin reached an agreement with Moshiri and was awaiting the Premier League’s owners’ and directors’ test.
The Premier League has now approved the purchase of 98.8% of Everton by the Friedkin group, pending the completion of the owners’ and directors’ test. “Once approved by the board, it was also approved by an independent panel,” stated the Premier League.
Dan Friedkin, owner of the company, will serve as the club chairman. In a letter to fans, he expressed his immense pride in belonging to one of the most historic clubs in English football. Friedkin acknowledged Everton’s proud legacy and emphasized his commitment to honoring it and contributing positively to the economy, community, and people of the city.
Despite their recent struggles, Everton has not been relegated from the top flight since the 1953-54 season. Currently sitting in 16th place in the table, they have been flirting with the lower reaches for several years. Last season, they managed to survive despite being hit with an eight-point deduction due to financial problems.
