Qudus SalihuEverton have reportedly sent shockwaves through the footballing world by inviting free agent striker Divock Origi to Finch Farm for training—just twenty-four hours before their critical Premier League clash against Burnley. The 30-year-old Belgian international, who is currently a free agent after his contract with AC Milan was mutually terminated earlier this week, was spotted at the Toffees’ training ground in what many are calling the most controversial “invitation” of the season.
The move has left supporters on both sides of the Merseyside divide in disbelief. Origi is a certified Liverpool legend, famously known for his “Derby Destroyer” reputation after scoring multiple iconic goals against Everton, including a 96th-minute winner at Anfield in 2018. Seeing the man who haunted the Blues for nearly a decade now wearing Everton training gear has sparked a firestorm of “total drama” across social media, with some fans branding the move a “masterstroke” and others calling it a “betrayal of history.”
For Everton manager Sean Dyche, the invitation is a pragmatic response to a growing injury crisis. With the team set to face Burnley at Turf Moor on December 27, the Toffees are desperate for attacking reinforcements. Origi, who has maintained his fitness with a personal trainer since leaving Italy, offers proven Premier League experience and a knack for scoring in the North West. While he cannot be registered to play until the January window officially opens, his presence in training suggests a deal is imminent.
The timing of the visit, just a day before a “relegation six-pointer” against Burnley, has added immense pressure to the squad. Pundits have been quick to question the move, wondering if bringing in a former rival hero will boost morale or “pollute the dressing room” atmosphere. However, with Everton currently fighting to distance themselves from the drop zone, the gamble on a player who knows how to find the back of the net in England may be one they are forced to take.
As the squad travels to Lancashire for the Burnley game, the eyes of the world remain on Finch Farm. The “Origi to Everton” saga has become the ultimate Christmas surprise, proving that in the Premier League, truly “nobody saw it coming.”
Rabiu Aminu
Mustapha Sheidu