Ronald Koeman’s Everton career started off quite well where he led them to Europa League qualification in his first season. As one would expect, he is aiming for better and higher achievements this season. But all hasn’t gone the Dutchman’s way. He now sees his side at a low 16th position in the League just 3 points off the drop zone.
A major problem for Koeman this season has been the lack of goals up front. Last time around, he had a strong presence in the form of Romelu Lukaku. Since his departure, the goals seem to have dried up and Koeman is now looking around for someone to fill in.
With so much cash at his disposal, the Toffees’ manager hasn’t placed his bets on the right tables. The first agenda on his notepad should have been to purchase a world class striker. That certainly hasn’t happened. Instead, Koeman went for a downgrade in the form of Sandro Ramirez who is yet to kick-start his Everton career. Question marks will be raised over the transfers of Davy Klaassen and Michael Keane where they shelled out £50m in total.
Luck Has Not Been On Koeman’s Side
On another hand, luck hasn’t quite been on the Dutchman’s side either losing out on Ross Barkley, Seamus Coleman and Yannick Bolasie to long-term injuries. To rub salt in the wounds, Barkley’s injury came right before the start of the season which certainly could have hampered Ronald Koeman’s plans.
Gylfi Sigurdsson’s arrival came at the neck of the transfer window. His late arrival has not given time for both him and the manager to create an instant impact. However, this could change shortly and it is only a matter of time before the Iceland international shifts gears.
But these are the least of Koeman’s worries at the moment. His side sits way back at 16th and sit 4th in their group in the Europa League after a draw and a defeat. Their play often seems to lack creativity and an edge. Rooney who has come on a free transfer is surprisingly Everton’s top goal scorer.
Too Many Cooks Spoiling The broth
Koeman has failed to create a team around a player as was the case last season with Lukaku. He is yet to figure out their problems in front of goal. With just 5 goals in their 8 games, their inability to find the back of the net has often left their defence with a huge task. Lack of confidence among the team seems to be a huge problem with over 9 signings made. The addition of so many new faces has hindered their fluidity.
Ronald Koeman now faces an uphill task to doctor the problems and get the Merseysiders back to winning ways. If results don’t come sooner rather than later, he might just be heading for the exit doors.
Does he deserve time, or is his time up at Everton?
