Doucoure Confirms Everton Exit After Five-Year Spell

Abdoulaye Doucoure will leave Everton when his contract ends this season. His five-year stay at Goodison Park is ending.

WHAT HAPPENED?

The 32-year-old Mali international shared the news on Instagram. He said: “Hi Evertonians, I just wanted to share this message with you that I’m going to leave the football club at the end of the season. After five wonderful years, my time at Everton has come to an end.” Doucoure was emotional during Everton’s last home game against Southampton on May 18. He waved goodbye to fans after being substituted in the 2-0 win.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Doucoure joined Everton from Watford in 2020 for £20 million. He has played 165 games for the Toffees. His exit comes as Everton prepare to move to their new Hill Dickinson Stadium next season. The midfielder has been key for Everton, scoring a vital goal to keep them in the Premier League on the last day of the 2022-23 season.

Everton are 13th in the Premier League with 44 points after 37 games. They have one match left against Brentford on the final day. Their win over Southampton ensured their safety with two games left, finishing three points ahead of 17th-placed Nottingham Forest.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR DOUCOURE?

Doucoure’s next move is unconfirmed, but newly-promoted Leeds United may be interested. Daniel Farke reportedly wants more Premier League experience in his squad as Leeds return to the top flight after automatic promotion from the Championship. In a recent interview with the Ben Foster podcast, Doucoure revealed: “It’s the first time in my career I become a free agent because I’ve always wanted a contract to protect myself. I’m quite secure to have other propositions, I know I’m going to have some other offers, I already have.” The midfielder also does not want a pay cut at Everton. His emotional ties to the club may not stop him from moving elsewhere.

IN HIS OWN WORDS

Looking back on his time at Goodison Park, Doucoure said: “I gave everything to win as many games as I could. I will just miss the place, and I wish them all the best in the new stadium. Everton will always be part of my life now. I will be forever a Blue.” His heartfelt words show the strong connection he has made with the club and its fans during his five years on Merseyside.