Walsall’s former manager Matt Taylor is reportedly in advanced talks with Premier League side Everton about a coaching position within their revamped academy. The 44‑year‑old ex‑midfielder, who left the Saddlers in February 2022, could soon be shaping the next generation of Toffees.
What is the new role about?
Taylor is said to be negotiating a role that will see him work with Everton’s under‑21s and younger age groups at the Hill Dickenson Stadium. Everton have been overhauling their youth set‑up, appointing ex‑Shrewsbury defender David Hughes as the under‑21s boss and bringing in former Town striker Nick Chadwick as a coach. Taylor’s experience in both the Premier League and lower‑league management could fit the club’s ambition to produce home‑grown talent.
How does his Walsall tenure fit the picture?
Taylor’s first spell at Walsall ran from May 2021 until February 2022, a period that saw the Saddlers finish 18th in League Two. He left after a run of poor results, but his reputation for developing young players remained intact. That reputation helped him land a brief stint at Wealdstone in the National League before moving to Solihull Moors, where he was dismissed in September 2025 after only four wins from 26 games.
Why is this move significant for Walsall supporters?
Even though the role is at Everton, the appointment highlights Taylor’s continued relevance in English football circles. Walsall, currently 13th in League Two with 65 points, have struggled for consistency - their recent form reads LLLLW, and they suffered a 3‑1 defeat to Bromley on 2 May 2026. Seeing a former Saddlers boss progress to a Premier League academy may inspire the club’s own youth prospects and reassure fans that the club’s alumni are still valued at higher levels.
What could happen next?
If the talks conclude successfully, Taylor will join a coaching team that includes former Shrewsbury and Villa defender David Hughes and ex‑Town forward Nick Chadwick. Everton’s academy overhaul aims to produce more first‑team players, and Taylor’s experience across the leagues could bring a pragmatic edge to training sessions. For Walsall, the news may spark discussions about bringing back familiar faces or strengthening ties with larger clubs to aid player development.
Walsall sit 13th in League Two with 65 points after a 1‑0 loss to Bromley on 2 May 2026, a reminder that the club still needs fresh ideas to climb the table. Taylor’s potential move to Everton could indirectly benefit the Saddlers if knowledge and contacts flow back to the club.
