“Bring Him Back” – David Moyes Set to Bring Former Everton Player who Carlo Ancelotti Ditched Back to Everton in a Bid to Strengthen the Defense

Moyes Eyes Potential Ben Godfrey Return to Everton Amid Defensive Reshuffle

David Moyes could be handed the opportunity to bring Ben Godfrey back to Everton this summer, with the defender’s stint in Italy reportedly drawing to an early close.

Godfrey, 27, left Goodison Park last year to join Serie A side Atalanta in a £10 million deal. His departure came under the instruction of then-manager Carlo Ancelotti, who saw the centre-back as surplus to requirements. However, the switch has not gone to plan for the former Norwich man, and Moyes could now see a route to strengthen his backline with a familiar face.

Reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport (16 June 2025) suggest Godfrey is already poised to leave Atalanta after making just five appearances. He spent the second half of last season on loan at Championship outfit Ipswich Town, but the Italian side is believed to be open to a permanent sale.

With Moyes now leading the Toffees and prioritising defensive reinforcements, Godfrey’s availability could represent a sensible piece of business. The club have successfully welcomed former players back before—Idrissa Gana Gueye being a standout example. Gueye rejoined the Blues from PSG and went on to become a key figure once again, even being regarded by some as the club’s player of the season.

Wayne Rooney’s second stint also brought quality and stability during a turbulent period under Sam Allardyce. Moyes may be hoping for similar success should Godfrey return.

Despite his mixed form before departing, some supporters still hold Godfrey in high regard. One notable fan, former boxing world champion and lifelong Evertonian Tony Bellew, voiced his feelings on social media earlier this year after the defender applauded the Goodison faithful.

“Top player who’s missed 😢💙😢,” Bellew posted on X (formerly Twitter), following Godfrey’s lap of appreciation on what appeared to be a farewell outing.

That moment sparked speculation about a potential return, and it’s now clearer than ever that the door may be reopening.

Importantly, the defender’s exit wasn’t solely his decision. Godfrey left under the guidance of Ancelotti, who saw a different tactical direction for the club at the time. With a new regime in place, both parties may view a reunion as mutually beneficial.

Godfrey’s final Premier League season with Everton in 2023/24 offered respectable numbers: 15 appearances, a 66.7% tackle success rate, 2.09 aerial duels won per 90 minutes, 5.29 duels won per 90, and five shots blocked. Though not always first choice, he remained a reliable and versatile option, capable of playing across the backline.

Interestingly, there are indications that Godfrey remains emotionally connected to the club. Despite no formal links this summer, he reportedly tried to persuade striker Liam Delap to consider a move to Everton—suggesting he still sees himself as part of the Toffees’ future.

If Moyes is seeking familiar leadership and defensive depth without stretching the budget, a Godfrey return could tick all the right boxes. With a summer rebuild underway, forgiving the past and backing a player eager to prove himself again might just be the right move for all involved.