Stats Prove This Veteran Is Everton’s Secret Weapon: Is Europe Still Possible? | OneFootball

Everton produced their finest performance at Hill Dickinson Stadium on Saturday. They beat Chelsea 3-0. This result has dramatically boosted their European ambitions under David Moyes. A report from Goodison News highlighted Idrissa Gueye’s phenomenal performance. The Senegalese international stood out on a massive night in L4. Beto grabbed a brace. James Garner earned praise from everyone. However, the veteran Gueye quietly controlled the contest from deep.

Idrissa Gueye Reminds Everyone Why Age Is Just a Number in Everton’s 3-0 Demolition of Chelsea

Gueye intercepted Chelsea’s play. He drove forward with the ball and then fed Beto. Beto’s shot squirmed through Robert Sánchez. This made it 2-0 in the 62nd minute. According to Sofascore, Gueye made three tackles. He recorded five interceptions and seven recoveries. He won every single duel he contested across the 90 minutes. Gueye completed 100% of his dribbles. He finished with 82% pass accuracy from 61 touches. These numbers show a player at the top of his game. Many younger players simply could not match him on the day.

Can a 36-Year-Old Gueye Really Carry Everton Into Europe?

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 23: Idrissa Gueye of Everton during the Premier League match between Everton and Manchester United at Hill Dickinson Stadium on February 23, 2026 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

Gueye captained Senegal to their second AFCON title in January 2026, which was later stripped from them. They beat host nation Morocco 1-0 after extra time. He returned to Merseyside and immediately lifted Everton’s form. That African continental performance proves his current quality. He and Iliman Ndiaye celebrated Ndiaye’s third goal by holding up two fingers and then one. This sent a pointed message to CAF. It showed that Senegal holds two AFCON titles, not one. This man clearly still has plenty of fire.

Yet we must stay grounded. Football Insider revealed in November that Everton planned to replace Gueye, as they had concerns about his age, and these concerns make sense. His contract expires in June 2026. At 36, his athleticism will eventually fade. This remains true despite his current form. He sometimes struggles with positional coverage for a full 90 minutes against high-pressing sides. Everton should not build their entire European blueprint around him.

Tougher tests lie ahead. Liverpool, Manchester City, and Sunderland must still visit Hill Dickinson Stadium. Gueye looks magnificent right now. However, Moyes must manage him carefully, as he is an asset, not a guarantee. Saturday was a statement. Whether this lasts depends on decisions made off the pitch.