Everton’s pre-season preparations hit a stumbling block as Charly Alcaraz’s struggles continued in a goalless draw against Bolton Wanderers. The Argentine midfielder, signed permanently from Flamengo for £13million last summer, has yet to find his footing under David Moyes, and his performance at the Toughsheet Community Stadium did little to ease concerns.
Why did Alcaraz struggle against Bolton?
Alcaraz looked out of place once again, failing to make an impact in a match where Everton were expected to dominate. The midfielder’s lack of a defined role has been a persistent issue, and against Bolton, he failed to justify his place in the squad. His struggles were emblematic of Everton’s broader problems, as the team lacked creativity and cohesion.
What does this mean for Everton’s pre-season?
While Everton’s draw against Bolton wasn’t a disaster, it highlighted gaps in the squad that need addressing. Thierno Barry and Jarrad Branthwaite were bright spots, but the lack of attacking threat from Alcaraz and Dwight McNeil raised questions about Moyes’ options. With pre-season winding down, Everton may need to consider reinforcements to avoid another season of missed opportunities.
What’s next for Alcaraz at Everton?
Alcaraz’s future at Goodison Park is uncertain. His inability to adapt to Moyes’ system has left Everton with a dilemma: whether to persist with him or explore other midfield options. With the new season approaching, time is running out for Alcaraz to prove his worth. If he can’t find his form soon, Everton may have to accept that their £13million investment hasn’t paid off.
