Free agent Abdoulaye Doucoure not sure what his future holds

By SABC Sport
25th March 2025

Everton midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure is facing an uncertain future at Goodison Park after the club decided not to trigger a one-year extension in his contract.

The 32-year-old, who played a crucial role in the Toffees' Premier League survival in the 2022/23 season, is now free to listen to offers from other clubs.

Doucoure is one of 13 Everton players whose contracts expire this summer, as the club navigates financial constraints and a potential squad rebuild.

Despite his contributions, including his famous winning goal against Bournemouth on the final day of the 2022/23 campaign, Everton have opted not to activate his automatic extension clause.

However, a return to Everton remains possible. The club could look to renegotiate terms to keep the Mali international at Goodison Park, and new manager David Moyes may have a role for him in his plans.

"It's a difficult situation, to be honest. I never lie when I talk about my future. Obviously I've had a great time here. I don't know what's going to come next. I'm a free agent now so I have some possibilities," said Doucoure, as quoted by The Times.

"I will always cherish my time here and I will be very happy for what I did for Everton. Even if I leave, inside my heart I will always be a Blue.

"For the moment nothing has been discussed so let's see what's going to happen in the next couple of months. But it may be my last season here, so I want to enjoy it as much as I can and do the best I can."

With Doucoure's future uncertain, interest from other clubs is expected. As a free agent, he has the freedom to negotiate with potential suitors ahead of the summer window.