Everton takeover by The Friedkin Group is CONFIRMED as Toffees usher in a new era of stability after Farhad Moshiri’s turbulent ownership

Everton fans have been handed an early Christmas present as their long-running saga to find new owners was finally resolved on Thursday morning.

The Friedkin Group have been officially announced as the new custodians of the club – with stability said to be the key message the Texas-based billionaires want to give to fans.

Dan Friedkin, the stunt pilot and aviation expert worth £4.8bn, will lead the new empire and has appointed Marc Watts as executive chairman, with Ana Dunkel set to join the board as financial director. Colin Chong will continue in his role as interim chief executive officer.

Friedkin said: ‘Dear Evertonians, I want to express my gratitude for your continued support.

I take immense pride in welcoming one of England’s most historic football clubs to our global family, The Friedkin Group.

‘Everton represents a proud legacy, and we are honoured to become custodians of this great institution. The Friedkin Group is a diverse family of companies with a global footprint spanning industries such as sports, automotive, entertainment, hospitality, and adventure.

The takeover will usher in a new era at Everton following Farhad Moshiri disastrous spell

‘Across all our endeavours, we strive to deliver extraordinary experiences that ignite people’s passions. We are thrilled to bring this ethos to Everton and the Liverpool City Region.

‘Whilst we are new to the club, we fully understand the vital role Everton plays in local culture, history, and the lives of Evertonians here and around the world. We are deeply committed to honouring this legacy while contributing positively to the community, economy, and people of this remarkable city.’

It is understood the Friedkins have made a significant conversion of Everton’s debt to equity and a fresh injection of cash – separate to any loans – has taken place.

The new owners are keen to stress they want stability and Watts has laid out six key goals: strengthen the men’s squad through ‘thoughtful and strategic investment’; cultivate home-grown academy stars; foster a distinct on-pitch and commercial strategy for the women’s team; respect the club’s traditions and keep Everton at the heart of the community; maximise the potential of the new stadium’s commercial partnership and; enhance the club’s reputation as a unique and historical worldwide name.

The Friedkins will back manager Sean Dyche and director of football Kevin Thelwell, with no radical changes in either department forecast.

Representatives of the group are expected to be at the Toffees’ clash with title-chasing Chelsea on Sunday.