Godwin ObajeEverton’s Next Creative Spark: Ndiaye’s Influence and the Rising Interest in James McAtee
The return of David Moyes to Everton has injected renewed optimism into a club eager to re-establish itself on the Premier League stage. While the transition to the new Hill Dickinson Stadium looms large, it is on the pitch where change is most urgently required—and Moyes appears to have already found a key figure around whom the future could revolve.
Enter Iliman Ndiaye.
The Senegalese international has proven a revelation since arriving on Merseyside, with his debut campaign brimming with flair, productivity, and passion. In a side that has at times appeared devoid of inspiration, Ndiaye has stood out as a beacon of creativity.
From Marseille Misfire to Merseyside Magician
Ndiaye’s move from Marseille to Everton for £15 million raised eyebrows. His stint in Ligue 1 was less than impressive, registering just four goals across 46 appearances. However, Moyes and the Everton hierarchy saw something in the 25-year-old that many overlooked: a raw, instinctive talent capable of transforming games.
Jordan Campbell of The Athletic perhaps best captured the essence of Ndiaye’s impact when he wrote that the playmaker is “the type of player who can change an entire mood” at a club. And change it he has.
His season at Goodison has been marked by moments of brilliance, most notably his brace during what proved to be an emotionally charged farewell to the iconic ground. With 11 goals across all competitions in the 2024/25 season, Ndiaye emerged not only as the club’s top scorer ahead of Beto but also as its most influential figure in the final third.
What sets him apart is his ability to weave through defences with an almost balletic grace. The fans have taken to him quickly, recognising a player who doesn’t merely play for the badge, but performs with it stitched to his heart.
Moyes’ Blueprint for the Future
Ndiaye’s successful adaptation to life in the Premier League offers a telling insight into Everton’s transfer strategy under Moyes. With budget constraints likely to remain a factor and a raft of departures expected this summer—including Ashley Young, João Virginia, and Abdoulaye Doucouré—the club’s focus appears to be on intelligent, sustainable recruitment.
The end of several loan deals, with Jack Harrison, Jesper Lindstrom, Orel Mangala and Armando Broja returning to their parent clubs, further emphasises the pressing need for reinforcements. One permanent addition already in the works is that of Charly Alcaraz, the exciting South American midfielder, with Everton set to make his stay permanent for a fee in the region of €15 million (£13 million).
But it is another name on the club’s radar that has begun to stir real intrigue: James McAtee.
Everton’s Interest in James McAtee
According to a report from the Daily Mail, Everton have made initial enquiries into the availability of Manchester City’s James McAtee. The 22-year-old midfielder—valued at £25 million—is also attracting interest from Nottingham Forest, West Ham United, and Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen.
McAtee, a product of Manchester City’s acclaimed academy, has struggled for game time at the Etihad but has demonstrated his potential during back-to-back loan spells with Sheffield United. His ability to unlock defences and influence play in the final third has drawn comparisons to Arsenal’s Martin Ødegaard—both in style and in impact.
Indeed, some within Goodison Park circles believe that McAtee could follow a similar trajectory to Ndiaye: a talented player in need of a platform, a manager who believes in him, and a fan base ready to embrace a new hero.
A Proven Track Record at Bramall Lane
McAtee’s time at Sheffield United was far from a developmental detour—it was a coming of age. Across 75 appearances for the Blades between 2022 and 2024, he recorded 22 goals and assists, with nine goals and three assists coming during the 2022/23 Championship season alone.
That year, he played alongside none other than Ndiaye, who himself delivered 14 goals and 11 assists in the same league campaign. Their chemistry was evident, and the numbers don’t lie: they were among the most potent attacking duos in the Championship.
Given their previous synergy and mutual understanding on the pitch, a reunion on Merseyside could be an inspired move. Moyes may be building not just a team, but a partnership that already has a proven track record.
McAtee’s Statistical Edge
In the modern game, data underpins scouting and decision-making. And McAtee’s metrics over the last 12 months highlight just why Everton—and others—are so keen.
According to the data:
Non-penalty goals per 90: 0.78 (Top 1% among peers)
Shots per 90: 3.53 (Top 6%)
These statistics reflect a player with not just potential, but real end-product. He is not a passenger in games but a contributor with a genuine eye for goal.
Why McAtee Fits the Moyes Model
David Moyes has long been an advocate of technically gifted, hard-working players who bring both flair and functionality. McAtee fits that mould to a tee. He’s young, driven, and possesses the kind of versatility that allows him to operate across multiple midfield roles.
In a post-Goodison era, Everton’s identity must be clear. The new stadium, while symbolic of progress, must also house a team that excites and inspires. A midfield spearheaded by McAtee and anchored by Alcaraz, with Ndiaye floating ahead, could offer just that.
Final Thoughts: A Project Worth Building
Everton’s interest in James McAtee is not just another summer rumour—it’s a statement of intent. It signals the club’s desire to back Moyes with players who can grow alongside the manager’s vision and bring sustained quality to the side.
The Toffees’ £15 million gamble on Iliman Ndiaye has proven a masterstroke. Replicating that success with a similarly high-ceiling talent in McAtee—albeit at a slightly higher price point—would be a logical, calculated risk.
As Everton bid farewell to Goodison Park and welcome a new chapter, the blueprint is becoming clearer: build around brilliance, invest in potential, and never underestimate the power of a player who can “change an entire mood.”
If Everton can secure McAtee, they may well be doing just that—again.
Godwin Obaje
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