Season 2020-21 Opinion Talking Points

Is Everton's Success Helping to Restore Ancelotti's Reputation?

by Gary McCarty  |   14/10/2020   Comments  [Jump to last]

It is tough to remember the last time that Everton fans had so much to smile about. The past few weeks have been a whirlwind of positivity for the club, as it has experienced success on several different fronts.

The team enjoyed a fruitful and exciting transfer window, while players have risen to the occasion on both the domestic and international scene. Most importantly, the club is also sitting pretty at the top of English football.

Instant impact

At the time of writing, the club has achieved four wins out of four in the Premier League, with a number of stars shining brightly in each of the fixtures. James Rodriguez has made an instant impact in a blue shirt, while Dominic Calvert-Lewin appears to be in the form of his life.

The club's number nine just cannot stop scoring and his exploits led to an England call-up and a start in a friendly against Wales. Naturally, he went on to open the scoring in the game with a header, while shortly afterwards he was also named the Premier League's Player of the Month for September.

However, while much of Everton's success can be linked to the players, the man in charge certainly deserves plenty of praise too. Carlo Ancelotti was named Manager of the Month for September due to the club's remarkable run, with the results meaning they look like serious challengers this season. At present, Funbet has Everton at 18/1 to win the league outright, while they are also 5/2 to secure a top-four finish and Champions League football.

Fascinating chapter

It does seem like Everton is shaping up to be a fascinating chapter in the Ancelotti story. While he has won plenty of silverware throughout his coaching career, his time at Goodison Park has come off the back of a period when he has perhaps not enjoyed the success many would expect.

For example, he was sacked by Bayern Munich in September 2017 after the club was knocked out of the Champions League. While he had helped them win the Bundesliga in the season before, those at the top of the club said the team had failed to meet expectations in the following campaign.

Interestingly, Ancelotti was dismissed from his role at Napoli last December shortly after he had helped the team reach the last 16 of the Champions League. The Guardian outlined how the club beat Genk 4-0 in order to progress in the competition, but the victory was essentially too little, too late for the coach. After all, it came following a nine-game run without a win.

Reputation restored?

Ancelotti's successes mean he will always be regarded as a great of the game. However, considering what has happened in his recent managerial posts, it could be suggested that he is on the way to restoring his reputation a little thanks to his work at Everton.

The past month or so has been a remarkable time for the Toffees and fans will be excited to see just what the side can achieve in the months ahead.

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