Everton may have picked up their first point of the Premier League season on Saturday, but what has happened on the pitch thus far this season has quickly become an afterthought for fans and the media.
After all, it was bound to pale in comparison to the news that Dan Friedkin had agreed a deal to buy Everton after months of speculation.
It’s so refreshing to finally have a light at the end of the tunnel for this fanbase, which has been treated to some of the harshest times in recent years.
However, before any relationship can be forged between Evertonians and their new owners, The Friedkin Group must first ensure that their existing club remains content.
Dan and Ryan Friedkin send message to AS Roma fans
Naturally, in an effort to try and curb any potential unrest that their acquisition of Everton might cause back in Italy, The Friedkin Group were quick to issue a statement to AS Roma fans in which they promised it would change nothing of their day-to-day operations.
In fact, they even suggested that, in the long-term, this relationship could end up hugely benefitting both clubs.
Their statement was a lengthy one, but there were a few bits of interest for Evertonians, the first of which read: ‘We remain active investors in the sports industry. We love the beautiful game. The potential addition of Everton to our portfolio does not alter our focus on AS Roma. If anything, the multi-club symbiosis will only help Roma.
‘Each club in our portfolio operates independently and AS Roma remains at the heart of our football ambitions. Rest assured, our commitment of time, resources, and energy to Roma will not be diminished.
‘Our goal is clear – to see AS Roma consistently compete at the highest levels of European football.’
They then noted: ‘To our incredible fans, we acknowledge the immense responsibility we bear in leading this historic club. Your unwavering loyalty fuels us as we continue building for the future. We value your voices and want you to know — we hear you. You are the soul of this club, and we are determined to make you proud.’
The Friedkin Group show Everton fans their communication skills
Whilst this message was sent to fans of AS Roma, what it offers for Evertonians is arguably just as important.
After all, it showcases a transparency in communication between the owner and its supporters, the likes of which were somewhat absent during the early years of Farhad Moshiri‘s reign.
Inexplicably opting for talkSPORT as his port of call to disseminate important information about the club, many look back on his chats to Jim White with embarrassment.
However, the Friedkins have instead shown the best practise, seeking to quell potential fear within a fanbase before it grows with a speedy statement to ease worries.
This is how it should be done, and it therefore bodes well for the Toffees.
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