Ex-Everton goalkeeper opens up on ‘straight’ Ronald Koeman talks and battles with World Cup stars

Former Everton goalkeeper Joel Robles has reflected on his five-year stay at the club, discussing his relationships with managers and competing goalkeepers. Robles, now 36 and playing for Portuguese side Estoril, praised Tim Howard, Maarten Stekelenburg, and Jordan Pickford for their roles during his 65 appearances on Merseyside after signing from Atletico Madrid under Roberto Martinez in 2013.

Robles revealed that former manager Ronald Koeman was direct with him upon arriving, immediately naming Stekelenburg as the first-choice goalkeeper. Despite earning playing time during his Everton tenure, Robles ultimately declined a contract renewal in his fifth season to pursue a new opportunity with Real Betis.