Every season, there seems to be one Premier League club that surprises everyone.

A team that perhaps isn’t expected to challenge the traditional big clubs suddenly finds itself competing towards the top half of the table.

This season, I’m going with Everton.

Yes, Everton.

And before anyone starts laughing, hear me out.

Why Everton?

Everton finished 13th last season.

That doesn’t exactly scream surprise package.

But there were signs that this team could be capable of much more.

The Toffees were still sitting as high as seventh with just two games remaining before a late collapse saw them finish 13th. 

That’s the bit that interests me.

Everton weren’t miles away from competing for the European places.

They just couldn’t maintain it.

If David Moyes can get that consistency this time around, things could get interesting.

Moyes Has Had More Time

David Moyes returned to Everton during the 2024/25 season and helped steady the club after a difficult period.

Now he’s heading into his second full season back in charge.

That’s important.

Moyes knows Everton.

He knows the Premier League.

And he knows how to build teams that are difficult to beat.

Everton don’t necessarily need to play the most attractive football in the league.

They need to become consistent.

If Moyes can get them regularly picking up points against the teams around them, I think they can climb the table.

A Second Season at the New Stadium

This will also be Everton’s second season at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Last season was always going to involve an element of adjustment after leaving Goodison Park, one of English football’s most famous old grounds.

Now the novelty has worn off.

Everton know their new home.

The supporters know it.

And hopefully the team can start turning it into the sort of difficult home venue that Goodison Park was famous for.

A strong home record could be absolutely crucial to my prediction.

Beto and Barry Could Be a Threat

One area I’m particularly interested in is the attack.

Beto finished last season as Everton’s leading scorer, and if he can continue that form, he gives Moyes a genuine focal point up front. 

Then there’s Thierno Barry.

The French striker showed flashes of his potential during his first season in England, and his performances in pre-season have given Everton supporters plenty to be encouraged about.

Barry scored in Everton’s 3–1 pre-season victory over Newcastle and looked lively throughout the game. 

If Beto and Barry can both contribute regularly, Everton could have considerably more threat going forward.

And that’s important.

Because if Everton are going to finish in the top half, they’ll need to score more goals consistently.

The Squad Is Starting to Look Interesting

Everton have also added more depth this summer.

Christian Nørgaard, Merlin Röhl, Hayden Hackney and Brennan Johnson are among the players brought in, giving Moyes more options across the squad. 

There’s still time for more business before the transfer window closes, but this isn’t a team that looks destined for another relegation battle.

There’s also plenty of young talent that could take another step forward.

Tyler Dibling is one I’m particularly interested in watching.

If he can become more consistent, Everton could have another dangerous attacking option.

I’m Not Predicting Champions League Football

Let’s not get carried away.

I’m not predicting Everton to finish in the top four.

I’m not even saying European football is guaranteed.

What I am saying is that I think Everton can finish inside the top half.

And I think they could be closer to the European places than people expect.

The Premier League is also going through plenty of change this season, with numerous clubs starting the campaign under new managers.

That could create opportunities for teams outside the traditional contenders.

Why couldn’t Everton take advantage?

Our Prediction

I’m putting it on record now:

Everton will finish in the Premier League top half.

Maybe they’ll finish 10th.

Maybe they’ll push even higher.

Maybe this article will look absolutely ridiculous by Christmas.

But that’s the fun of making predictions before a ball has been kicked.

I’m backing Everton to surprise a few people this season.

Come back in May and we’ll see whether I look like a genius…

…or whether I was completely wrong. But regardless, it’s all just for fun!