As the summer transfer window looms and teams across the Premier League begin to reshape their squads, Everton is making some tough calls.
One of the biggest names heading for the exit door? Ashley Young.
The seasoned pro, known for his adaptability and leadership, will be released at the end of June—along with two other players.
Ashley Young Set to Leave Everton at the End of June
After nearly two decades in top-flight football, 39-year-old Ashley Young is preparing to close the chapter on his Everton career.
The club has confirmed he will not be offered a new contract once his current deal runs out this summer.
Young, who has made 438 Premier League appearances over 19 seasons, has been a key figure at several clubs, including Watford, Aston Villa, Manchester United, and most recently, Everton.
His glittering career includes a Premier League title win with United during the 2012–13 season and 39 caps for the England national team.
He also earned a spot in the PFA Team of the Year twice during his prime.
Goalkeepers Asmir Begovic and Joao Virginia Also on the Way Out
It’s not just Young saying goodbye. Everton will also release goalkeepers Asmir Begovic, 37, and Joao Virginia, 25.
Begovic returned to the club at the start of this season but didn’t get any game time.
Virginia, who’s been with the Toffees since 2018, made only eight first-team appearances.
Manager David Moyes Praises Professionalism and Leadership
Speaking about the upcoming changes, Everton manager David Moyes was full of praise for the departing players, particularly Young.
“Since I returned to the club, I’ve seen just how much of a professional Ashley is,” Moyes said.
“His leadership on and off the pitch, along with his experience and versatility, has been a real asset to both the squad and myself.”
He also took a moment to acknowledge Begovic and Virginia: “They’ve worked incredibly hard and have been true professionals.
We’re thankful for their contributions and wish them well in whatever comes next.”
Uncertainty for Several Other Everton Players
While Young’s departure is confirmed, the futures of several other senior Everton players remain unclear.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Abdoulaye Doucoure, Michael Keane, Idrissa Gueye, and Seamus Coleman are all out of contract this summer.
So far, the club hasn’t made any official announcements about their statuses.
Moyes admitted the situation is complicated. “There are a lot of moving parts,” he explained.
“With so many contracts ending, we’re in ongoing discussions with players.
Some will know their fate by the end of this week, while others might have to wait until next week.”
Could Wrexham Be Young’s Next Stop?
So what’s next for Ashley Young? That part is still up in the air.
One rumour floating around suggests Wrexham could be a possible destination, now that the club has been promoted to the Championship.
However, manager Phil Parkinson has stated that there will be no “superstars” brought in during their summer recruitment, hinting that a move for Young may not be in the cards.
Two Years of Grit and Class at Goodison Park
Young’s time at Everton might have been short, but it was anything but insignificant.
In his two seasons at the club, he racked up 68 appearances and continued to prove he could compete at the highest level—well into his late 30s.
His departure marks the end of another chapter in a long and accomplished career.