Every Everton fan knows the feeling all too well. The moment their team takes the lead, a familiar pattern emerges—drop deeper, invite pressure, and eventually concede. It's almost predictable, and last Monday against Manchester City was no exception.

No one expected Everton to go two goals up against the champions. But the real blow came after scoring a third—failing to reset and allowing Erling Haaland to respond instantly. James Tarkowski himself took responsibility for that lapse, a sign of the defensive fragility that has haunted the squad.

Against Crystal Palace, Tarkowski scored but once again, the centre-half partnership with Michael Keane proved shaky at the back. It's a recurring theme that has dashed any lingering European hopes.

Realistically, Everton's ambitions for continental football ended when Jarrad Branthwaite suffered his serious injury in the Merseyside derby. Without him, the defensive depth simply isn't there to handle the demands of both Premier League and midweek European fixtures. Leading twice in a must-win game and still failing to secure all three points says it all.

Now, Everton sit exactly where most expected them—mid-table. David Moyes has brought stability back to Goodison Park, but with his contract nearing its end, the Friedkin ownership faces a crucial decision: stick with the experienced manager or roll the dice on someone new?

Had Everton secured European football, Moyes would have earned an extension. But with a World Cup on the horizon and potentially half the Premier League searching for new managers, the market could get chaotic fast. The Friedkins may see this as the perfect moment to take a gamble, especially given the level of investment already made.

For now, the question remains: should Everton stick with Moyes or twist? The answer will shape the club's direction for years to come.