Everton's season has taken a dramatic and positive turn. Under the steady hand of David Moyes, who returned to the Goodison Park dugout in January 2025, the Toffees have transformed from relegation candidates into European hopefuls, currently sitting eighth in the Premier League. The recent 3-0 demolition of Chelsea showcased a disciplined, well-drilled side brimming with confidence, setting the stage for a crucial Merseyside derby against Liverpool. With the gap to the top five narrowing, the atmosphere around the club's new stadium is one of genuine optimism.

Amidst this resurgence, a key squad decision is emerging. According to reports, manager David Moyes is determined to keep midfielder Carlos Alcaraz at the club, despite the 23-year-old Argentine finding minutes hard to come by. The stellar form of Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Iliman Ndiaye has kept Alcaraz on the bench, but Moyes reportedly sees him as a vital piece for the 2026/27 campaign.

The faith in Alcaraz is backed by compelling data. When fit, his creative metrics are impressive, averaging 1.2 key passes per game and ranking in the top quarter of Premier League midfielders for expected assists. While injuries have limited him to just 16 appearances this season, the club believes these are short-term setbacks, not a chronic problem.

For Everton, retaining a player of Alcaraz's technical quality could be a savvy move. His ability to unlock defenses provides a different dimension to Moyes's typically gritty midfield. The gamble is on his fitness, but if he stays healthy, Alcaraz has the potential to be the creative catalyst that elevates Everton's ambitious project to the next level.