Everton teenager seals new contract after “crazy” first-team call-up

Everton academy midfielder Malik Olayiwola has committed his future to the club after signing his first professional contract, a deal that will keep him at Goodison Park until June 2028.

The 17-year-old, who marked his birthday last week, is now entering his 12th season with the Blues. A first-year scholar since last summer, Olayiwola’s rise has gathered pace in recent months and was underlined just two days after his birthday when he was named in a senior matchday squad for the first time. He took his place on the bench for Everton’s FA Cup third-round tie against Sunderland at Hill Dickinson Stadium, a notable milestone in his young career.

Speaking after putting pen to paper, Olayiwola reflected on a season that has moved quickly for him. “I’m very proud because I’ve worked a long time for this. This season’s been good because I’ve gone from the Under-18s to Under-21s and then on to the bench with the first team so quickly. It all happened so fast – I was just excited.”

Being part of David Moyes’ senior group left a lasting impression. “That was surreal. Being around so many people you watch on TV, warming up and being in the same environment as them was crazy.

“I take a lot of confidence knowing I was called up to be with them, so I’ve gone into this week – with my own age group – to perform.”

Highly regarded within the academy, Olayiwola has represented England at Under-15, Under-16 and Under-17 level and continues to catch the eye at Finch Farm. Operating in central midfield, he has registered four goals and three assists in eight league appearances for Everton’s Under-18s this season.

He also made his Under-21s debut in December, coming off the bench to score in a 3-2 Premier League International Cup win over PSV Eindhoven at Goodison Park. His exposure to older age groups began even earlier, with his Under-18s debut arriving during the 2023/24 campaign when he was just 15.

Those challenges, he believes, have sharpened his game. “I got used to the game speed which made me more comfortable on the ball, so I found it easier to express myself.”

Now, with his first professional deal secured, Olayiwola is clear about his next targets. “I want to keep developing as a player but also try to get some minutes with the first team, as well as keep putting in good performances for the Under-21s.”