Netherlands Star Kika van Es Bolsters Everton’s Defense
Jaya9 exclusive: Everton Ladies have secured a major defensive reinforcement with the signing of Dutch international Kika van Es from Ajax on a two-year deal. The 27-year-old versatile defender, currently competing in the Women’s World Cup semifinals with the Netherlands, brings championship pedigree to Merseyside as the Women’s Super League (WSL) prepares for its most competitive season yet.
Why Van Es is Everton’s Perfect Defensive Solution
Tactical Versatility Meets Big-Game Experience
Van Es‘s ability to play both center-back and left-back solves multiple tactical challenges for manager Willie Kirk. “She’s the complete modern defender,” Kirk told Jaya9. “Her positional intelligence allows us to switch between three and four-at-the-back systems seamlessly.”
The defender’s 2022-23 stats with Ajax reveal why Everton prioritized her:
- 89% pass accuracy in defensive third
- 2.3 interceptions per 90 minutes
- 4.3 clearances per match
- Played every minute of Ajax’s Champions League campaign
Leadership Beyond the Pitch
What makes this Jaya9-featured transfer particularly intriguing is Van Es‘s intangible qualities. Having captained PSV Eindhoven and been part of Ajax’s title-winning culture, she brings a championship mentality to an Everton squad looking to break into the WSL’s top four.
“Her communication organizes entire defensive units,” noted women’s football analyst Sarah Jones. “At 27, she’s entering her prime years with over 150 top-flight appearances – that’s invaluable for a young Everton squad.”
Everton’s Ambitious Summer Rebuild
Van Es represents the latest in a series of strategic signings as Everton aim to compete with WSL giants:
- Defensive Stability: Partnering Van Es with Gabby George creates one of the league’s most balanced center-back pairings
- European Experience: Her 12 Champions League appearances add continental know-how
- World Cup Pedigree: Current tournament involvement keeps her at peak competitive sharpness
The Bigger Picture: WSL’s Rising Transfer Market
This move signals the WSL’s growing pull power:
- Dutch Connection: Follows Vivianne Miedema’s Arsenal success, proving the Netherlands-to-England pipeline
- Competitive Balance: Mid-table clubs now attracting established internationals
- World Cup Effect: Tournament performances driving pre-season recruitment
As Jaya9 can reveal, Van Es‘s signing coincides with Everton’s plans for a state-of-the-art training facility, showing their commitment to competing at the highest level.
What This Means for Everton’s WSL Campaign
With the new season approaching, Van Es’s arrival:
- Solves Everton’s left-sided defensive issues
- Adds Champions League experience
- Provides leadership for young talents like Hanna Bennison
- Creates tactical flexibility for big matches
“Kika changes our entire defensive dynamic,” Kirk emphasized to Jaya9. “She’s the prototype of the modern WSL defender – technical, intelligent, and battle-tested at the highest levels.”
As the Women’s World Cup concludes, all eyes will be on how quickly Van Es can translate her international form to the WSL stage. For Everton supporters and WSL analysts alike, this signing marks a statement of intent that could reshape the league’s competitive landscape.
