As Everton F.C. and A.F.C. Bournemouth prepare to face off in a high-stakes preseason clash at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, fans are eagerly awaiting confirmation of the starting lineups. With both sides looking to build momentum ahead of the 2025/26 Premier League season, this friendly offers a compelling look at tactical setups, new signings, and potential breakout stars.
In this in-depth article, we’ll break down the projected Everton vs Bournemouth lineups, evaluate key players to watch, and explore the broader context of this exciting summer showdown. From transfer rumors to tactical expectations, here’s everything you need to know ahead of Everton F.C. vs A.F.C. Bournemouth.
Match Overview
Competition: Premier League Summer Series 2025
Match: Everton F.C. vs A.F.C. Bournemouth (Preseason Friendly #3)
Date: Saturday, July 26th, 2025
Kickoff: 1:00 PM PT / 4:00 PM ET / 9:00 PM BST
Stadium: MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, USA
Broadcast: TBD (Check local listings or club websites)
Everton F.C. Team News & Projected Lineup
Squad Status: Rebuilding Phase Amid Transfer Uncertainty
Everton F.C. arrived in the United States earlier this week for their preseason tour, still plagued by uncertainty around squad reinforcements. Manager David Moyes, recently re-appointed, admitted at a fan event that he aims to bring in up to nine new players before the transfer window closes. However, with just over three weeks until the new season kicks off, time is not on his side.
Recent Preseason Performances:
- Accrington Stanley 1-1 Everton (Rusty performance, lack of creativity)
- Blackburn Rovers 2-0 Everton (Defensive lapses, low attacking threat)
These early results underline the need for reinforcements and better chemistry among the current group.
Projected Everton Lineup vs Bournemouth
Virginia
Patterson – Branthwaite – Tarkowski – Mykolenko
Garner – Onana – Doucouré
Danjuma – Dobbin – Calvert-Lewin
Key Players to Watch:
- Dominic Calvert-Lewin – Injury-free and looking sharp, could be pivotal in Moyes’ system.
- Amadou Onana – Rumored to be drawing interest from top clubs, but expected to feature heavily.
- Arnaut Danjuma – After a quiet 2024/25 campaign, this is his chance to make a mark.
- Jarrad Branthwaite – One of Everton’s rising stars, could be a defensive leader this season.
A.F.C. Bournemouth Team News & Projected Lineup
Bournemouth’s Strong Preseason Start
In contrast to Everton, A.F.C. Bournemouth have enjoyed a smoother preseason. With minimal squad disruption and a core of settled players, the Cherries are looking to build on last season’s mid-table finish under Andoni Iraola.
Last Season Recap:
- Finished 12th in the Premier League
- Beat Everton three times across all competitions
- Famous comeback win: 3-2 at Goodison Park (88th-minute winner)
Projected Bournemouth Lineup vs Everton
Neto
Smith – Zabarnyi – Senesi – Kerkez
Christie – Cook
Ouattara – Billing – Tavernier
Solanke
Key Players to Watch:
- Dominic Solanke – Scored in the 3-2 comeback win vs Everton; in top form.
- Marcus Tavernier – A creative spark from midfield; dangerous on the break.
- Dango Ouattara – Raw pace and physicality could trouble Everton’s full-backs.
- Milos Kerkez – One of the brightest young full-backs in Europe.
Key Tactical Battles
1. Midfield Engine Room: Onana vs Billing
This battle could define the rhythm of the match. Onana brings verticality and presence, while Billing offers versatility and a goal threat.
2. Wide Channels: Danjuma vs Smith / Ouattara vs Mykolenko
Both teams rely on their wingers to stretch play. Danjuma’s flair vs Smith’s discipline, and Ouattara’s speed vs Mykolenko’s positioning, are match-ups to watch.
3. Center-Forward Duel: Calvert-Lewin vs Solanke
Both strikers are focal points of their respective teams. Their ability to hold up play, draw fouls, and convert chances will be crucial.
Recent Form & Head-to-Head Record
Recent Meetings:
| Date | Fixture | Result |
|---|---|---|
| May 2025 | Everton 2-3 Bournemouth | Bournemouth Win |
| Jan 2025 | Bournemouth 2-1 Everton | Bournemouth Win |
| Aug 2024 | Carabao Cup – Bournemouth 1-0 Everton | Bournemouth Win |
Bournemouth have won 3 consecutive matches against Everton, scoring 6 goals and conceding only 3.
Preseason Form (2025):
- Everton: D-L (vs Accrington, Blackburn)
- Bournemouth: W-W (vs Reading, Charlton)
What This Game Means for Both Clubs
Everton F.C.
- An opportunity to test systems under Moyes.
- Chance for fringe players to impress.
- Vital for building confidence after poor preseason start.
A.F.C. Bournemouth
- Continuing their excellent form into the new season.
- Tactical fine-tuning under Iraola.
- Establishing psychological dominance over a fellow mid-table rival.
Transfer Watch: Who Could Still Join?
Everton’s Transfer Rumors:
- Thierno Barry – A highly-rated striker on Everton’s radar. Read our scouting report.
- Ben Godfrey & Alex Iwobi – Could be on the move to raise funds for new arrivals.
Bournemouth Transfer Watch:
- Tyler Adams – Targeted for midfield depth.
- Young prospects from Europe also being eyed.
Follow Everton’s official site and Bournemouth’s news page for real-time updates.
Where to Watch & Match Details
- TV Channels: TBC (Premier League Summer Series broadcasting rights pending)
- Streaming: Club websites or preseason streaming packages (check availability)
- Ticket Info: Available via Ticketmaster – MetLife Stadium
Conclusion
The upcoming Everton F.C. vs A.F.C. Bournemouth lineups will provide a revealing glimpse into both clubs’ plans for the 2025/26 season. While Everton are in flux and urgently need clarity around new signings, Bournemouth look poised, organized, and confident under Iraola.
With both managers set to experiment with systems and personnel, this preseason fixture is more than just a friendly—it’s a tactical audition for squad players and a barometer of early-season form. Fans should expect high energy, evolving tactics, and possibly, a few surprises.
Stay tuned for full match analysis, player ratings, and tactical breakdowns after the game.
FAQs
1. When will Everton and Bournemouth release official lineups?
Lineups are typically released 60–90 minutes before kickoff on club websites and social media.
2. Who is expected to start up front for Everton?
Dominic Calvert-Lewin is the projected starter, though Danjuma and Dobbin may feature in wide or supporting roles.
3. Will any new signings feature in this match?
As of now, Everton are yet to confirm new additions, but David Moyes hinted that multiple signings could arrive soon.
4. What is the importance of this preseason match?
It serves as a tactical rehearsal for both teams and an opportunity for fringe players to make a case for selection.
5. How can I follow live updates for the match?
Follow official club Twitter/X accounts and subscribe to club newsletters for live commentary, stats, and lineups.
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