Beto Transforms from Exit Candidate to Moyes’ Hero at Everton
Beto transforms his season after being viewed as an exit candidate earlier this January. He now heads into Sunday’s derby against Liverpool as one of Everton’s in-form players.
Recent run and key moments
The 28-year-old has six goals in 2026. He averages a strike every 83 minutes this year.
He has five goal involvements across his last five matches. Highlights include a brace in a 3-0 win over Chelsea.
He also scored an equaliser in a 2-2 draw at Brentford. In January, he netted in the 97th minute to rescue a 1-1 draw with Brighton.
Notable past impact
Two days before the January 2025 window closed, he scored twice in a 4-0 win over Leicester. That run helped convince manager David Moyes.
He also scored in last season’s 2-2 Merseyside meeting with Liverpool. He previously struck the post at Anfield and troubled defences.
Statistics and playing profile
Beto stands 6ft 4in (194cm). He combines height, speed and physical strength.
He posts the fifth-highest expected goals per 90 in the league this season at 0.54. That is up from 0.46 last term.
He ranks fourth among starting Premier League strikers for xG per shot. He has reached near parity with xG this season — seven goals from an expected 7.4.
Competition for places and transfer interest
Everton considered alternatives in January. The club chased Callum Wilson and Youssef En-Nesyri, Moyes’ long-term target.
Enquiries from Juventus and Fenerbahce for Beto were rejected. At one point, Everton were confident they could replace him.
He has had to compete with summer signing Thierno Barry, who arrived from Villarreal.
Work ethic and coaching
Moyes and team staff praise his attitude. He regularly stays behind after training to work on finishing and ball control.
Moyes called him humble and hardworking after the Chelsea win. Teammates James Garner and James Tarkowski also welcomed his recent form.
Style and finishing
His goals have been varied. He has scored from rebounds, through-balls and a headed finish at Brentford.
He thrives on balls in behind and on running into the inside left channel. A more direct Everton suits his game.
Background and contract situation
Signed from Udinese in 2023, he arrived during financial constraints. The transfer included unusual payment terms.
He has no traditional academy background and rebuilt his career in Portugal’s lower leagues. He once worked at KFC while rising through the ranks.
Under the previous football director, he had been earmarked for a summer 2025 exit. With one year left on his deal at season’s end, Everton will soon decide his future.
Outlook ahead of the derby
Everton sit eighth and remain in European contention. They are five points behind Liverpool.
Beto has seized recent opportunities and looks like a Moyes’ hero for Everton. Sunday’s derby offers another stage for him to make an impact.
