Everton manager Sean Dyche has expressed regret over Alex Iwobi’s departure, acknowledging he was reluctant to let the Nigerian winger leave. Iwobi, who will soon return to Goodison Park with Fulham, joined Everton in 2019 from Arsenal for a reported £28 million. Over his four years at the club, he transformed from a struggling newcomer into a pivotal player, especially during Everton’s fight to avoid relegation in recent seasons.

The 2021-22 and 2022-23 campaigns saw Iwobi’s contributions prove crucial, and his final season with the Toffees ended with eight assists and the Players’ Player of the Season award. However, despite his impact, Iwobi left for Fulham in September 2023 as he entered the last year of his contract. Everton reportedly received £22 million for the transfer.

Reflecting on the move, Dyche said, “It was a very good deal for the club. I thought he was an excellent servant, certainly in my time here, and I enjoyed having him around the place. He was a joy to work with, a very good player, in my opinion. Not one I wanted to lose but needs must at that time. It was a good fee for a good player.”

Since joining Fulham, Iwobi has continued to impress, scoring seven goals and providing three assists in 43 appearances. This season, he has already notched up a goal and an assist in eight league games, helping Fulham’s promising start. As Fulham currently sits 10th in the standings with 11 points from eight games, Iwobi’s return to Merseyside adds an extra layer of excitement to his reunion with Everton under Dyche’s watch.