Everton Midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure Confirms Departure After Five Seasons

Everton midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure has confirmed he will leave the club at the end of the season after five years and 165 appearances. Doucoure, who joined Everton from Watford in 2020 for £20 million, is best remembered for his crucial goal against Bournemouth that secured Everton's Premier League status in the 2022/23 season. Despite being offered a new contract, negotiations fell through mainly due to wage demands, with Doucoure reportedly seeking a pay rise which Everton were unwilling to meet. Emotional during his final home game at Goodison Park, Doucoure expressed gratitude towards the club and fans, emphasizing his pride in wearing the Everton shirt and wishing the club success in their new stadium. The departure marks the end of a chapter for both the player and club, with Doucoure indicating readiness for a new phase in his career, amid reported interest from clubs in England and the Middle East. Everton has yet to announce other contract decisions but Doucoure will leave alongside other players whose contracts expire.