Vitaliy Mykolenko’s debut under the returning David Moyes was a significant moment for both the player and Everton Football Club. This Premier League encounter against Aston Villa, held at Goodison Park on January 15, 2025, marked the beginning of a new chapter for the Ukrainian international under a familiar face in the Everton dugout. David Moyes had recently commenced his second tenure as Everton manager on January 11, 2025, stepping in after the club parted ways with Sean Dyche. The anticipation surrounding Moyes’ return was palpable among the Everton faithful, and Mykolenko’s inclusion in the starting eleven for this first match under the Scotsman added another layer of interest.
Mykolenko, operating in his familiar left-back role, was entrusted with both defensive responsibilities and the task of providing width and attacking impetus from the flank. This reflects Moyes’ tactical approach, which Mykolenko himself has publicly acknowledged and appreciated. The manager’s system seemingly encourages the full-backs to contribute to attacking plays while maintaining their primary defensive duties. This blend of responsibilities suits Mykolenko’s skillset, which encompasses both a strong defensive work rate and an ability to deliver crosses into the box.
Despite the positive anticipation surrounding Moyes’ return and Mykolenko’s debut under him, the match itself ended in disappointment for the home side. Aston Villa managed to secure a 1-0 victory, dampening the initial enthusiasm. However, Mykolenko’s performance was closely scrutinized by supporters and pundits alike, offering glimpses of his potential role within Moyes’ revamped Everton setup.
Since that debut match against Aston Villa, Mykolenko has largely maintained his position as the first-choice left-back under David Moyes. His consistent selection underscores the manager’s faith in his abilities and his importance to the team’s defensive structure and attacking transitions. A notable interruption to his consistent run in the team came in April 2025 when a calf injury temporarily sidelined him. However, upon recovery, he swiftly returned to the starting lineup, reaffirming his value to the squad.
Mykolenko has spoken positively about his experience playing under David Moyes. He has highlighted the clarity of the manager’s tactical instructions and his encouragement for the full-backs to be involved in the attacking phases of the game. This positive relationship between player and manager is often crucial for a player’s development and performance on the pitch. As Everton navigated the remainder of the 2024-2025 season under Moyes, Mykolenko’s continued presence in the team demonstrated his adaptation to the manager’s strategies and his growing influence within the squad. His debut under Moyes, while resulting in a team defeat, served as the starting point for a significant period of his Everton career under a manager who clearly values his contributions.
