Moyes must boldly axe “magic” Everton star who’s worth more than Ndiaye

Everton’s Strategic Rebuild Signals New Era Under Moyes

Everton have entered the 2025/26 season with a clear and deliberate strategy — combining key summer signings with tactical continuity to revamp the squad.

Despite opening the campaign with a narrow 1-0 defeat at Elland Road, the Toffees responded with a solid 2-0 home win over Brighton, followed by a thrilling 3-2 victory at Molineux. These early results have sparked optimism among fans, especially considering the significant squad overhaul during the summer.

Under David Moyes, Everton saw the departure of several senior players, including Ashley Young, Abdoulaye Doucouré, and Dominic Calvert-Lewin, paving the way for fresh talent.

The club welcomed an exciting blend of youth and experience, headlined by Jack Grealish (Manchester City), Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall (Chelsea), Thierno Barry (Villarreal), and Tyler Dibling (Southampton). Grealish has hit the ground running, already providing four assists, proving that Everton’s transfer dealings are beginning to bear fruit.

However, one of the most quietly impressive performers has been Iliman Ndiaye, whose form has become increasingly influential in the early stages of the season.

Iliman Ndiaye: The Unsung Hero in Everton’s Attack

Ndiaye, 25, joined Everton from Marseille in 2024 and has quickly become a vital cog in Moyes’ attacking setup. Although primarily deployed on the left wing, the Senegal international is equally capable of operating as a central forward or attacking midfielder.

Last season, he notched nine goals in 33 Premier League appearances, showcasing a valuable balance of creativity and end product. He has continued that momentum this season, scoring in the wins over Brighton and Wolves.

Against Wolves, Ndiaye registered:

51 touches
22/33 passes completed (70% accuracy)
2 key passes

According to FBref, his broader 2024/25 stats illustrate his all-round impact:

9 goal involvements
3.19 progressive carries per 90
3.07 progressive passes per 90
81.8% pass completion rate
0.56 shots on target per 90 (42.9% accuracy)
2.41 shot-creating actions per 90
47.6% take-on success rate

These figures highlight Ndiaye’s value not just as a goal threat but as a dynamic, creative presence who links midfield and attack. His adaptability is particularly crucial given the increased competition for places following Everton’s summer acquisitions.

Dwight McNeil vs Iliman Ndiaye: Who Holds More Value?

While Ndiaye is flourishing, Dwight McNeil finds himself in a more uncertain position following the arrivals of Grealish, Dewsbury-Hall, and Dibling.

McNeil, also 25, joined Everton from Burnley in 2022 and had a productive 2024/25 season, recording four goals and eight assists in 21 league appearances. Under Sean Dyche, he was a vital figure in Everton’s survival campaign.

However, this season has started differently. McNeil has featured in just one of the first three league matches, suggesting his place in the starting XI is under threat.

Despite the reduced minutes, McNeil remains a technically gifted and tactically intelligent player. Journalist Joe Thomas even described him as “magic,” praising his creativity and ability to unlock defences.

Statistically, McNeil’s 2024/25 metrics remain strong:

2.50 progressive carries per 90
4.53 progressive passes per 90
74.5% pass completion
0.66 shots on target per 90 (40% accuracy)
53.3% successful take-ons

These stats reflect his ability to drive play from wide areas, link up in attack, and create chances.

While McNeil’s role may shift to more of a rotation or impact option, he remains a valuable squad player, especially in a long Premier League season that demands depth.

Interestingly, according to Transfermarkt, McNeil is currently valued at £22 million, slightly higher than Ndiaye at £19 million, suggesting that the market still sees him as a valuable asset — even if his minutes are now limited.

Looking Ahead: Who Fits Into Moyes’ Vision?

As Moyes continues to reshape his squad, players like Ndiaye are rising to the occasion, while others — like McNeil — face increased competition.

The balance of youth, creativity, and versatility may well determine who becomes central to Everton’s long-term plans.

With fresh talent settling in and early results trending positively, Everton fans have reason to be cautiously optimistic. But for players like McNeil, the challenge now is to prove they still have a major role to play in this evolving Everton side.