Idrissa Gana Gueye Leaves Everton After Seven Seasons

Everton have drawn a firm line under one of the most enduring stories of their modern era, confirming that Idrissa Gana Gueye has left the club after his contract expired at the end of June.

No new deal. No drawn-out saga. At 36, the Senegal midfielder walks away with 236 Everton appearances behind him and the club’s public blessing to “pursue a new challenge elsewhere,” with a move to Saudi Pro League side Al Diriyah expected to follow.

For a player whose game was built on interceptions, tackles and the unseen graft in midfield, the departure lands with quiet weight. There is no fanfare, but there is clear respect.

“Everyone at Everton is hugely grateful for Gana’s dedication, professionalism, and influence on the pitch throughout his two spells at the club,” said Blues boss David Moyes, underlining just how deeply the midfielder’s presence had been felt.

Gueye first arrived at Goodison Park from Aston Villa in August 2016, instantly becoming the heartbeat of Everton’s engine room. He left for Paris Saint-Germain in 2019, chasing trophies and Champions League nights, before returning in August 2022 to a club in need of experience, composure and a steady voice.

This second spell was never about glamour. It was about survival and standards. Moyes highlighted exactly that, pointing to Gueye’s “leadership qualities in and around the dressing room,” describing them as crucial, “particularly in our final season at Goodison.” When the pressure rose and the margins tightened, Gueye’s reliability became a reference point.

His commitment, Moyes added, “over many years was exceptional.” The message from the club is clear: this is a parting, not a rupture. “Everyone connected to Everton thanks Gana – he will always be welcome at the club – and we wish him and his family all the very best for the future.”

Seven seasons. Two spells. One consistent identity: a relentless, selfless midfielder who did the dirty work and rarely sought the spotlight.

Now, as Gueye prepares for what is likely the final major move of his career, Everton must confront a familiar question: who picks up the mantle in the middle of the pitch when one of their most dependable lieutenants has gone?