Vitaliy Mykolenko explains why he signed new Everton contract

Everton defender Vitaliy Mykolenko signed a new long-term contract this summer because the club made it clear he remains a central figure in their future plans, according to his agent.

Speaking to Flashscore.de, agent Vadim Shablii explained that Everton's confidence in the Ukraine international was the decisive factor behind the agreement, which could keep Mykolenko at the Hill Dickinson Stadium until 2029.

The left-back has become one of Everton's most consistent performers since arriving from Dynamo Kyiv in a €23.5 million move in 2022 and is expected to remain David Moyes' first-choice option heading into the new Premier League season.

Shablii revealed that negotiations were built on a shared understanding that Mykolenko continues to play a major role in Everton's long-term project.

"Contract negotiations in professional football are rarely simple, but in Vitalii's case, there was a very strong foundation from the start," Shablii said.

"He has been playing at a high level in the Premier League for years, knows the environment in Liverpool inside out, and feels extremely comfortable at the club."

The agent added that Everton's commitment made extending the contract the obvious outcome.

"For us, it was crucial that Everton remains fully committed to him and views him as a key pillar of their future project. That is why the contract extension was the only logical and right step for all parties involved."

Since David Moyes returned to Everton in January 2025, Mykolenko has remained an important part of the Scottish manager's plans.

The 27-year-old has now made 158 appearances in all competitions for the Toffees and is expected to begin another campaign as the club's starting left-back.

His consistency and experience have helped establish him as one of the senior figures within Everton's squad.

Although Mykolenko's new contract reflects Everton's confidence in the defender, competition for places could become stronger during the season.

Young left-back Adam Aznou has impressed during pre-season and is expected to challenge for minutes as he continues his development.

For now, however, Everton's decision to hand Mykolenko a long-term extension underlines the club's belief that he remains the leading option on the left side of defence.

By securing Mykolenko's future, Everton have ensured stability in a key defensive position while rewarding one of their most reliable performers. The arrival of greater competition may push standards higher, but the club's latest contract decision suggests Moyes continues to view the Ukrainian as a cornerstone of his squad.

Mykolenko is expected to start the new Premier League campaign as Everton's first-choice left-back, while Aznou's development could increase competition for places over the course of the season. The new contract also allows Everton to plan with greater certainty around one of the club's most experienced defenders.