Thierry Henry says striker Everton let go for free was actually ‘outstanding’
Everton Set to Enter the Market for a New Striker Ahead of Stadium Move
Everton are expected to prioritize signing a new striker this summer as preparations continue for their transition to the new Hill Dickinson Stadium.
With Dominic Calvert-Lewin likely to depart and confirmation that Armando Broja will not be signed permanently from Chelsea, David Moyes is facing a shortage of forward options.
As things stand, only Beto and Youssef Chermiti remain available for next season—a pairing that may not offer the firepower needed, especially when compared to some of the iconic strikers who have led the line for the Toffees in years past.
Names like Romelu Lukaku and Wayne Rooney have left lasting legacies at Goodison Park.
While Samuel Eto’o also briefly wore Everton blue, his impact wasn’t quite on the same level.
Thierry Henry Reflects on Samuel Eto’o’s Legacy
Samuel Eto’o arrived at Everton in 2014 under then-manager Roberto Martinez, signing on a free transfer from Chelsea at the age of 33.
Though the Cameroonian striker had enjoyed an illustrious career with Barcelona and Inter Milan, his best years were behind him by the time he joined the Premier League side.
Eto’o scored just four goals in 20 appearances before moving on to Sampdoria in Italy.
Despite his underwhelming spell in England, former teammate Thierry Henry recently praised Eto’o’s qualities on the Stick to Football podcast.
Henry explained that while fans often remember Eto’o for his finishing ability, what made him exceptional was his defensive work rate and pressing from the front—traits that diminished with age and may explain his less effective spells at both Chelsea and Everton.
“Sam was outstanding,” Henry said. “People always talk about his finishing, but he did something amazing in the [2009] Champions League final.
He went out to the right flank to defend against Patrice Evra, allowing Messi to move centrally. Watch that final again—Sam did that job alone.”
Eto’o Admits to Regret Over Short Everton Stint
In a 2019 interview with Everton’s matchday programme, Eto’o expressed some disappointment that his time at the club was so brief.
While he spoke fondly of his experience at Goodison Park, he admitted supporters never got to see him at his best.
“I was disappointed to be at Everton for only a short period,” he said. “I don’t think the fans ever saw the real Samuel Eto’o.
It was the same at Chelsea—I wasn’t able to show my best there either.”
Eto’o revealed that limited playing time played a role in his departure: “I went to speak with the gaffer because I wanted to enjoy more football.
I didn’t have much time left in the game, and while I was very happy at Everton, I had the opportunity to play elsewhere and enjoy the final years of my career. The manager understood, and helped facilitate the move.”
