Everton fans are experiencing a sense of irony as they observe the contrasting fortunes of Dominic Calvert-Lewin since his departure from the club. While David Moyes’ Everton struggled to break through Arsenal’s solid defense in a 1-0 loss at home, Calvert-Lewin was shining for Leeds United, contributing significantly to a 4-1 triumph over Crystal Palace at Elland Road. His performance, marked by two goals, boosted his tally to seven for the season and six in his last five matches.
The difference in output is striking, particularly when comparing Calvert-Lewin’s resurgence to the struggles of his successors at Everton, Beto and Thierno Barry, who have mustered only two league goals combined. When Calvert-Lewin left Everton last summer after a nine-year tenure, there was a mix of gratitude for his previous contributions and a recognition that his time at the club had likely reached a natural conclusion. His departure followed a challenging period marked by injuries that limited his appearances and goals.
Despite Everton’s efforts to retain him, including contract negotiations to keep him as the squad prepared for an overhaul, Calvert-Lewin found himself dissatisfied with the role offered by manager Sean Dyche, prompting his eventual exit. The club did attempt to explore potential swaps involving him with major teams like Newcastle, Chelsea, and Manchester United, but these deals did not materialize. Ultimately, Calvert-Lewin moved to Leeds in mid-August, where he began a fresh chapter in his career.
His impressive form at Leeds appears to stem from more than just a change in scenery. A renewed focus on his fitness and an uninterrupted preseason have contributed significantly to his goal-scoring prowess. Notably, he has already reached his best goal tally since the 2020-21 season, showcasing an improvement in his goal-scoring efficiency and positioning. This season, he is averaging nearly two first-time shots per game in the box, reflecting a tactical shift that aligns with his playing style and strengths as a forward.
Additionally, his move to Leeds has provided a new sense of purpose, and his integration into the team has allowed him to flourish in an environment where he is considered a key player and a fan favorite. The psychological reset and change in context appear to have revitalized him, making his return to form particularly noteworthy.
As Calvert-Lewin prepares to face his former club on Monday, there is a blend of nostalgia and apprehension among Everton supporters. While they may hold fond memories of his contributions—especially pivotal goals that secured their top-flight status—there is a hope that he does not further underscore what they could be missing in his absence, especially at a time when the club is grappling with its own goal-scoring challenges. Calvert-Lewin’s journey underlines the importance of the right environment and perspective for athletes, illustrating how a change can lead to renewed success on the pitch.