PSV Director of Football Marcel Brands has revealed how he didn’t hesitate to sign Richarlison for Everton, despite knowing he wouldn’t stay at Goodison Park forever.
Richarlison was one of Brands’ biggest signings during his time in charge on Merseyside, joining the Blues from Watford in a €39.2m deal.
He went on to establish himself as a key player for Everton during his four years there, scoring 53 goals and registering 14 assists in 152 games in all competitions for the club.
Those numbers saw him establish himself as a firm fan favourite among the fanbase, who loved his commitment on the pitch and clear love for the club in equal measure.
They were sorry to see him depart in a €58m deal with Tottenham in the summer, bemoaning Everton’s inability to keep hold of a star player because of their financial situation.
“He has everything to be a top striker,” he told NOS.
“He was our number one target as a striker. You knew with him: Everton is not going to be his end station. We bought him at the time for a lot of money, but I never saw that as a risk.
“He was so eager to score a goal, which was unprecedented. I remember Ancelotti saying to me after a couple of training sessions: ‘Gosh, how Richarlison can head, what timing.’
“He is also a boy who behaves respectfully. When I left Everton, he thanked me for my support.”
