Iliman Ndiaye’s impressive form places Everton’s attacking strategy under scrutiny. With Jack Grealish sidelined, David Moyes must decide how to build around Ndiaye while safeguarding his emerging talent from Premier League rivals.
Since joining Everton from Olympique de Marseille in July 2024, Iliman Ndiaye has quickly established himself as a pivotal figure for the club under manager David Moyes. The Senegalese international’s impact was immediate, with 11 goals across all competitions last season, earning him the title of Everton's top scorer. His performance has not gone unnoticed, drawing significant attention as he continues to impress on the pitch. Former Everton star Anders Limpar has lauded Ndiaye’s potential, comparing him to top-tier players like Jeremy Doku.
Limpar suggests that Ndiaye possesses the versatility and skill required to perform at any top Premier League club, including rivals such as Liverpool. Ndiaye’s tactical role has evolved, with the player predominantly operating on the right wing this season after spending his initial campaign primarily on the left. His recent contributions, including a notable performance in a 2-0 win over Burnley, highlight his growing importance to Moyes’ attacking strategy. These include an assist for Iliman Ndiaye and two goals at Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Analysts point to the potential synergy of combining Ndiaye with a reliable number nine and a quality winger on the opposite flank as a catalyst for Everton to cement a place in the Premier League's top six.
However, the club currently faces a critical test of its squad depth, particularly following a foot injury to Jack Grealish, which has forced Moyes to rotate key players such as Harrison Armstrong and Dwight McNeil. As Ndiaye continues to flourish, Everton finds itself in a race to secure its rising star’s future, balancing the need for immediate team success with the long-term challenge of retaining elite talent amidst interest from some of the Premier League's most established clubs.
