Bosnian midfielder Muhamed Bešić, endured one of the most inauspicious starts to an Everton career. Brought on as a late substitute in a defensive horror show at home to Chelsea in August 2014, with his first touch the 21 year old midfielder hit an aimless backheel into the path of opponent John Obi Mikkel, who set up Diego Costa for Chelsea’s sixth and final goal. 

Off the back of playing Bosnia & Herzegovina at the previous summer’s World Cup in Brazil, the defensive midfielder was a £4 million acquisition from Hungarian side Ferencváros. A hard-tackling, no-nonsense midfielder, he was described the football writer, Jonathan Wilson as a ‘cultured scrapper who could turn out to be an Everton gem’.’ His work and fearless style of play endeared him to Evertonians and his tenacity and combative energy hinted at the impact he could make in England's top flight.

Bešić’s first season under Roberto Martínez showcased some of his defensive resilience and versatility. Whether deployed as a central midfielder or a defensive shield in front of the backline, he consistently disrupted opposition play and demonstrated impressive passing ability.

One of Bešić’s standout performances came in a Merseyside Derby in February 2015, where his disciplined display in a 0-0 draw earned widespread praise. Speaking of his qualities, BBC Sport noted that Bešić ‘had a great capacity to break up the opposition’s rhythm and set the tone with his physicality.’  Another outstanding show came in the 2016 League Cup semi final against Manchester City. It was, wrote Wilson, ‘his best performance in an Everton shirt… buzzing around the more sedentary solidity of Gareth Barry.’

However, Bešić’s time at Everton was marred by injuries, which repeatedly curtailed his progress. A severe knee injury sustained during pre-season in 2016 sidelined him for an entire campaign, and despite his best efforts he struggled to regain his place in a highly competitive midfield. During his time at Goodison Park, Bešić made 56 appearances, but the combination of fitness issues and managerial changes limited his opportunities. His importance to the side waned after the departure of Martínez, as subsequent managers preferred different tactical setups.

In search of regular game time, Bešić joined Middlesbrough on loan during the second half of the 2017/18 season. At the Riverside Stadium, he showed flashes of his old form, helping the team reach the Championship playoffs. The following season, Bešić extended his loan with Middlesbrough, making 37 appearances and contributing with crucial goals, including a stunning strike against Derby County. While Bešić’s performances in the Championship demonstrated his quality, he ultimately failed to break back into Everton’s first team upon his return.

Bešić’s post-Everton career saw him move on from the Premier League. After being released by the club in 2021, he returned to Ferencvaros and subsequently his native Bosnia and Herzegovina, signing for FK Sarajevo. The move marked a homecoming of sorts for Bešić. At Sarajevo, Bešić sought to reinvigorate his career, bringing his wealth of experience from playing in top European leagues. His leadership on and off the pitch became vital for the club as they aimed to challenge for domestic honours and compete in European competitions.