Ainsley Maitland-Niles
EVE
RB
Possession Builder
Aug 29, 1997 (29)
Right
5'11"
157 lb
EvertonScores late equalizer on debut
Maitland-Niles scored one goal to go with one shot (one on goal) in Sunday's 2-2 draw against Manchester United.
Analysis: Maitland-Niles made an immediate impression in his first appearance for Everton since arriving from Lyon during the week, scoring a long-range equalizer late in the match to rescue a point. Turning his only attempt into his first goal of the season was an ideal introduction, especially given his limited time on the pitch. His versatility should be particularly useful moving forward, with Maitland-Niles capable of providing depth in midfield as well as in several roles across the defensive line.
Signs with Everton
Maitland-Niles has been acquired by Everton on a permanent transfer, leaving Lyon for the 2026/27 season.
Analysis: Maitland-Niles returns to England with plenty of European experience after a short stint at Roma and several seasons with Lyon, where he saw Champions League and Europa League action recently. Last season, the right-back tallied one goal and four assists, as well as 57 tackles and 72 clearances over 30 games (28 starts) in Ligue 1 play. He'll challenge Merlin Rohl for starts in the back line for the rest of the season.
Set to return in UCL
Maitland-Niles (not injury related) is in the squad for Wednesday's match against Fenerbahce.
Analysis: Maitland-Niles was one of several players who were rested for the Ligue 1 opener against Toulouse this past weekend, but the versatile Englishman should be back in the XI for the second leg of this UCL clash. Expect him to get the nod at right-back once again, sending Zachary Athekame to the bench in what'll be Lyon's biggest game of the season to date.
Not available for opener
Maitland-Niles is not with the squad for Saturday's match against Toulouse, likely due to rest.
Analysis: Maitland-Niles started Lyon's Champions League playoff first leg against Fenerbahce just days ago, but the quick turnaround has seen Fonseca opt to rest him for the league match with the second leg against Fenerbahce on the horizon. Zachary Athekame will likely gets the nod at right-back.
Suffers knock in friendly
Maitland-Niles only suffered a knock during Wednesday's 2-0 friendly loss to Slavia Prague and trained normally in Sunday's session, according to Olympique et Lyonnais.
Analysis: Maitland-Niles was forced off in the 67th minute against Slavia Prague, but his ordinary participation in training days later confirms there is no lasting issue. His preseason has otherwise been shaky, having been below his usual standards last season and struggling to make a positive impact in the early friendlies, including a miscued clearance that led directly to Servette's goal in an earlier match. With no injury concern now in play, his focus turns to finding better form as Lyon continues its preseason preparations.
Generates assist
Maitland-Niles assisted once to go with one shot (one on goal), one cross (zero accurate) and two chances created in Saturday's 3-2 victory over AJ Auxerre.
Analysis: Maitland-Niles did create two chances and was able to log an assist in Lyon's win. The winger will be an important player in the attack against Rennes, a team which has been susceptible to giving up goals as it has allowed 41 across 30 domestic matches.
Select Player
Search and select a player to compare