The story of two of England’s most iconic football clubs is rooted in an unlikely dispute that happened over a century ago. What many fans might not realize is that the rivalry between Everton and Liverpool was born not out of competition on the pitch, but from a disagreement over rent at a shared stadium. This surprising conflict played a pivotal role in shaping the Anfield stadium history and creating a football rivalry that continues to this day.

 

An Unlikely Beginning: Everton’s Early Days at Anfield

 

 

 

In the late 19th century, Everton, one of the oldest football clubs in England, called Anfield their home. Everton played at Anfield stadium from 1884 to 1892, but the club faced a significant issue when a rent dispute arose between them and the owner of Anfield, John Houlding. Houlding raised the rent, and Everton's board, unable to reach an agreement, decided to leave.

 

The Move to Goodison Park

 

 

Following the rent dispute, Everton relocated to Goodison Park, a decision that left Anfield stadium without a team. Everton's new home became one of the most iconic football grounds in England, while Houlding, left with an empty stadium, founded Liverpool Football Club in 1892. This set the stage for the rivalry that would define Anfield stadium history.

The Birth of Liverpool FC: A New Rival Emerges

 

 

Houlding’s decision to create Liverpool FC to fill the void left by Everton at Anfield proved to be the catalyst for one of the most intense rivalries in football. The proximity of Goodison Park and Anfield stadium, separated by just Stanley Park, only fueled the growing tension between the two clubs.

Today, the Liverpool vs Everton rivalry is one of the most fiercely contested in English football, with each club taking immense pride in its stadium and history.

 

Anfield and Goodison Today: Two Iconic Grounds

 

 

While Everton fans have called Goodison Park home for over a century, exciting changes are on the horizon. In 2025, Everton will leave Goodison for the brand-new Bramley Moore Dock stadium, a modern waterfront arena that promises to usher in a new era for the club.

On the other hand, Anfield stadium has remained Liverpool’s home, with ongoing renovations and expansions ensuring its place as one of the most iconic stadiums in football. Recent improvements, like the new Main Stand and Anfield Road expansion, have elevated the stadium’s capacity, allowing more fans to experience its legendary atmosphere.

Tours of Two Historic Stadiums

 

 

Visitors to Merseyside can explore the deep-rooted history of these two legendary grounds. While the opportunity to tour Goodison Park is limited, with the move to Bramley Moore Dock stadium imminent, fans of both clubs can still visit Anfield stadium to explore its rich history, including the story of how it gave birth to Liverpool FC.

The Future of the Rivalry

As Everton moves to the Bramley Moore Dock stadium and Liverpool continues to expand Anfield, the rivalry between these two great clubs is set to evolve. Though separated by more distance, the fierce competition and pride between the two clubs will remain intact. The Liverpool vs Everton rivalry is one of football’s greatest, and as both clubs look to the future, the passion behind the rivalry will undoubtedly continue to thrive.

What began as a rent dispute at Anfield stadium has grown into one of football’s greatest rivalries. With Everton preparing to move to the modern Bramley Moore Dock stadium and Liverpool investing in Anfield stadium’s renovation, the story that started with a split will continue to shape the future of both clubs. No matter where they play, the rivalry will remain a defining feature of Merseyside football.