Friedkin Group visit revealed as Everton sent exciting transfer message – ‘They want to invest’
Joao Virginia Set to Leave Everton, but Sees a Promising Future Under New Ownership
Joao Virginia is preparing to move on from Everton this summer, but he believes the club is heading in a positive direction under new owners, The Friedkin Group.
The 25-year-old goalkeeper, who joined Everton from Arsenal in 2018, has mainly served as backup to Jordan Pickford in recent seasons. With his contract expiring and not being renewed, Virginia will become a free agent this summer after making eight senior appearances for the Toffees.
In an interview with Italian outlet Diretta (via Sport Witness), Virginia shared his thoughts on the club’s new ownership and his own future.
“After the takeover, the new owners came to the training ground and introduced themselves. It was the first time we met them,” he said. “They seemed very committed to making positive changes and investing in the club. It’s still early days, but I believe Everton is moving in the right direction.”
Looking ahead to the next chapter of his career, Virginia acknowledged that it had always been difficult to break into the starting lineup at Everton given Pickford’s strong form.
“I don’t have a specific destination in mind,” he said. “I want to play at a high level. I already have some options and expect more to come over the summer. Spain, Portugal, even Italy — any of those would be exciting opportunities.
“I’ve spent the last two years as Jordan’s understudy. He’s had excellent seasons, and it’s not easy to take his place. I worked hard and made the most of cup games, but opportunities were limited.
“Now I feel it’s time to move on and get regular minutes. I’m at a point in my career where I need to play. I don’t want to be a backup forever.”
Virginia was also asked about the possibility of joining Roma — a club also owned by The Friedkin Group. While he acknowledged the appeal, he praised their current goalkeeper, Mile Svilar.
“Who knows? Svilar had a fantastic season. I’ve followed him closely — we’ve faced each other several times in youth football. He was at Benfica when I left. Roma is a great club, but they already have a top keeper in Svilar.”
