With Marco Rose now at the helm, Bournemouth striker Evanilson could become one of the most important players in the Cherries’ 2026/27 campaign. The Brazilian frontman remains integral to the side, and this could be his chance to truly thrive and take centre stage within the Cherries attack.
Evanilson has emerged as one of the standout performers of Bournemouth’s pre season so far, looking increasingly comfortable in Marco Rose’s system. The Brazilian striker has been central to much of the Cherries’ best offensive work, combining his relentless running with intelligent movement and a growing understanding of Rose’s demands.
With the news that attacker Eli Kroupi will be sidelined for some time, Evanilson’s importance could become even greater, so his impressive displays in pre season are a huge positive. He shone in Bournemouth's latest fixture against Real Betis, expertly assisting Marcus Tavernier for the opener, before striking expertly himself.
Evanilson's 25/26 Campaign
Evanilson’s 2025/26 season was perhaps one that demonstrated there was far more to his game than simply scoring goals. While his six goals may leave the Brazilian wanting more numbers in front of goal, his overall contribution to the Cherries' record breaking campaign was more than significant.
Ultimately, six league goals probably doesn't tell the full story of the Brazilian's season. His work rate, movement and intelligent link up play helped create opportunities for those around him, even when he wasn't the player finishing the move. He did still score some key goals himself mind, netting in both the seismic home win over Liverpool and in both fixtures against Tottenham, resulting in the double over Spurs.
Evanilson's Hopes And Expectations Ahead Of 26/27 Season
The new season could be a hugely important one for Evanilson. With Marco Rose now in charge at Bournemouth, the Brazilian looks set to remain a central figure in the Cherries' attacking plans, but exactly where he operates in the frontline could make his role particularly intriguing.
Cherries' new head coach has already suggested that Evanilson is capable of playing deeper in what he described as a '9.5' role, particularly within a two striker system. That could give Bournemouth another dimension, allowing the forward to drop between the lines, link play and create space for runners beyond him, which he is undoubtedly capable of thriving in.
That in itself does not necessarily mean Evanilson will move away from being the team's main striker. His ability to bring teammates into play make him well suited to leading the line, while his versatility could also allow Rose to alter the shape depending on the opposition in front of them.
Credit: Bournemouth Echo.
With the club now preparing for their first ever European campaign, Rose will need reliable attacking options and there is no doubt Evanilson will be one of them. Possibly the only key element that the Brazilian will be hoping to improve on will be his numbers in front of goal. After contributing six Premier League goals last season, there is a clear opportunity for him to improve on those numbers while still retaining the overriding qualities that made him such an important part of Bournemouth's best ever Premier League finish.
