After an incredible breakthrough season, Jarrad Branthwaite may be difficult for Everton to “hide,” according to captain Seamus Coleman.
Branthwaite, who is only 21 years old, has been one of Everton’s top players this year, leading Sean Dyche’s defense with maturity and poise beyond his years.
Branthwaite finished the 2023–24 season ranked third in terms of aerial duels won (95), interceptions (50), clearances (157) and passes completed (1,105) among Everton players, only behind center-back partner James Tarkowski. The goal that Branthwaite scored in April to help Everton defeat Liverpool in their first Goodison derby since 2010 will also be remembered for a very long time.
The young player’s success this season, which comes after a fruitful loan at PSV Eindhoven in the Dutch league in 2022–2023—was rewarded with his first senior England call-up in March. As a result, many are now urging Gareth Southgate to include him in his squad for the European Championships this summer.
Coleman, the captain of Everton, has not held back while complimenting his gifted teammate.
“He is excellent. Coleman remarked, “You see him every week, he’s unbelievable,” in response to Everton’s 2-1 loss to Arsenal on the last day of the 2023–2024 season (as reported by the Liverpool Echo).
“The maturity has increased, demonstrating once again how beneficial it is to play football outside and develop your own wings.” He is a pleasure to have around the place and returned a lot more self-assured player and person.
“We must not undervalue Tarky’s effect at his side—they have collaborated incredibly well. Jarrad has a bright future provided he maintains his groundedness.
This summer, Everton will have to fight to keep Branthwaite.
Unfortunately for Everton at the moment—especially considering their financial situation—any promising young player will inevitably draw interest from rival teams.
Several teams are reportedly interested in Branthwaite, including Manchester United. Sources also told CaughtOffside that the Toffees have identified former Spurs center-back Davinson Sanchez as a potential replacement.
Even though Branthwaite helped lead Everton to 15th place despite an eight-point deduction, the club would love to hang onto him for at least another year. However, the unpleasant truth is that it might be difficult to keep him hidden from inquisitive eyes. Coleman went on,
“He’s in the England picture and is modest, humble, and hardworking.” This season, there have been a few games that I’ve seen and thought, “He’s so athletic and so skilled with the ball.” To be fair, I don’t want to talk about him too much, but such brilliance is hard to hide for very long.