James Smith returns to Everton to help management reorganize

Recommended Network June 13: According to The Athletic, Manchester City scout and recruitment director James Smith is about to leave Manchester City and return to his old club Everton to serve. James Smith served as technical scouting director during Moyes' first coaching Everton in 2003, and transferred to Manchester United with Moyes. This return, he will join the management restructuring plan led by Everton’s new CEO Angus Kinneal.

Manchester City had a good relationship with Everton, and the two sides had harmonious negotiations on Smith's return. At present, Manchester City has arranged for Smith to enter the gardening holiday, and under the leadership of new football director Ugo Viana, the structural adjustment will be carried out to strengthen the connection between the first team and the youth training system. Smith's return is regarded as an important gain for Everton, who has achieved remarkable achievements in both Manchester City and is highly praised by the industry. He will replace former recruiting director Dan Purdy, who left in April, who has followed former football director Kevin Terville to join the Glasgow Rangers.

Everton's new management also includes Nick Hammond, head of transaction negotiations poached from Leeds United and Chris Howards, director of strategy. The club also plans to appoint a new director of football operations through headhunter Nolan Partners. Smith will report to the new CEO Kinneill, who was previously a Leeds executive and his appointment originated from Everton's new owner Friedkin Group not renewing his contract with Terville during a major reshuffle in management.

For Everton, who is about to move to the new stadium, this summer's transfer window is crucial. As many as 15 players on the team have contracts expire at the end of June, including veteran Ashley Young, substitute goalkeeper Virginia and Begovic, and midfielder Doocury is about to leave the team for refusing to renew the contract. However, Everton has activated the 15 million euro buyout clause to buy out Flamengo renters Alcalas and start contract renewal negotiations with midfielder Gayer.