The Hammersmith-born manager responded to remarks from club chief Angus Kinnear, clarifying that European qualification had never been outlined as a specific objective before the previous campaign.
At his media briefing ahead of the opening match of the 2026-27 season, Moyes tackled the narrative surrounding what some considered a disappointing conclusion to Everton’s previous term.
The manager acknowledged that a seven-match sequence without victory had cast a lengthy shadow over his summer break, from which he was only beginning to recover.
However, he took issue with assertions made by chief executive Kinnear earlier in the week regarding the Friedkin Group’s assessment of the season’s outcome.
Speaking to the BBC, Kinnear had explained the owners’ perspective, stating the season fell short because European qualification had appeared achievable and the group had been optimistic about reaching that position.
Moyes expressed surprise at this assessment when speaking to journalists before Everton’s Premier League encounter with Crystal Palace.
When questioned about his views on how the 2025-26 term concluded and what Kinnear had commented days prior, Moyes replied that he had experienced significant disappointment at failing to qualify, requiring much of the summer to process the outcome.
He emphasised that European participation carries substantial benefits for a club, including increased revenue, enhanced recruitment capabilities, and the ability to maintain a larger playing squad through more frequent competitive fixtures. These factors had motivated his desire for success.
Moyes expressed astonishment that the ownership group had felt let down, explaining that at no point had anyone instructed him that Champions League or Europa League qualification was mandatory or that finishing near the top was expected.
He indicated that the primary concern had been ensuring a stable transition into the new stadium without enduring too problematic a season, a goal that was successfully achieved.
Kinnear also cited European competition as an aspiration for the current season. Regarding the squad’s potential, Moyes noted his extensive experience enabled him to assess what requirements must be met to compete at that level, and he believed additional signings would be necessary to reach such a standard.
When pressed on whether he anticipated further transfer activity before the window closed, Moyes confirmed he expected additional arrivals, though acknowledged the outcome remained uncertain.
The manager disclosed that three players would be unavailable for the season’s commencement: James Garner undergoing recovery from hernia operation, Tim Iroegbunam managing an adductor complaint, and recent arrival Christian Norgaard among five summer acquisitions not yet match-fit. Moyes anticipated a challenging start given these circumstances.
Saturday’s fixture against Palace at Hill Dickinson Stadium marks the first occasion with James Tarkowski officially leading the side, following Seamus Coleman’s departure during the close season.
Regarding the appointment, Moyes explained that Tarkowski had effectively captained the team throughout the previous season. He paid tribute to Coleman as an exemplary leader both on and off the pitch, noting his contributions had been particularly valuable during challenging periods.
Moyes stressed that difficult circumstances should not be forgotten, but Tarkowski had embraced the responsibility. He would need to maintain strong performances, as competition exists at central defensive position, though throughout his time on the field, Tarkowski would serve as captain.