Everton begin their Premier League campaign at home to Crystal Palace on Saturday, 22 August 2026. The match at Goodison Park marks the start of the new season for both clubs.
Manager Sean Dyche has some selection headaches, particularly in midfield and attack. The return of key players from injury and new signings have increased competition for starting places.
Jordan Pickford is expected to start in goal, with a back four of Seamus Coleman, James Tarkowski, Jarrad Branthwaite, and Vitaliy Mykolenko. In midfield, the question is whether to start with a more defensive or attacking setup, with options like Idrissa Gueye, Amadou Onana, and new signing Tim Iroegbunam.
Up front, Dominic Calvert-Lewin is likely to lead the line, but the supporting attackers are less certain. The decision could hinge on fitness and tactical approach against Palace's strong defensive record.
Everton will be hoping to improve on last season's 15th-place finish, while Palace, under new manager Oliver Glasner, will aim for a top-half finish.
