Premier League side Everton have officially announced that Ronald Koeman will be their new manager for the next three years. The Toffees had to pay around 5 million pounds in compensation to Southampton as the Dutch manager was still under contract with the Saints. Koeman has managed Southampton for two years, while Everton have been without a boss since deciding to sack Roberto Martinez just a few days before the end of the season. Koeman was on holiday until Tuesday, the deal had already been agreed but the official announcement was delayed until his return.
Koeman's contract at Everton is reported to be worth around 6 million pounds a year. "Ronald has such a strong track record in the game, instantly commanding respect for what he achieved as a player and for his qualities and accomplishments as a manager," Everton chairman Bill Kenwright said. "We are really pleased to have secured the man who was our number one target from the moment we set out to appoint a new manager." Koeman has led Southampton to a sixth-place finish last season, their best ever placement in the Premier League.
Everton had also considered Spanish boss Unai Emery, who had just left Sevilla after three consecutive Europa League crowns, while former Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini was also on the shortlist. Koeman has made over 750 senior appearances as a player, with 253 goals scored and the 1998 European Championship crown won with the Netherlands. He has won four league titles in the Netherlands and Spain as a player. As a manager he has guided Vitesse Arnhem, Ajax, PSV, AZ Alkmaar, Feyenoord, Benfica and Valencia. He has won the Dutch top flight with Ajax and PSV and the Spanish Cup with Valencia.
Everton are 12/1 at Bet365 to finish inside the Premier League top four next season.
06/15/16, 12:06:19 PM
