Former Newcastle boss Rafa Benitez is reportedly a candidate for the Everton job.
The Toffees are soon to be managerless, with Carlo Ancelotti reportedly returning to Real Madrid.
This is a huge blow for Everton, who had hoped for a brighter future under the Italian.
According to the Athletic, Everton have a lengthy list of potential candidates, including Benitez.
This is no surprise considering the Spaniard’s availability after leaving Dalian Yifang at the start of the year.
However, there is also his Liverpool past to consider. Benitez spent six years in charge of Everton’s biggest rivals.
Other reported candidates include David Moyes, Steven Gerrard and Roberto Martinez.
Everton job is the latest vacancy Benitez has been linked with
This is the second time in recent months that Benitez has been linked with a return to the Premier League. In May he was named by the Daily Mail as a contender for the Tottenham job.
Wherever the 61-year-old goes, his next move will be a tough watch for Toon fans.
Benitez spent three years with Newcastle, and quickly established himself as a beacon of hope for supporters.
He stayed after relegation and secured an immediate return to the Premier League. He then steadied us in the top flight despite a limited budget.
And since his departure, fans have pined for his return.
While the points tally has been similar under Steve Bruce, the football has been rotten. The small amount of hope that Benitez created has since been sucked away.
Whoever appoints Benitez will be getting one hell of a manager with a point to prove to Mike Ashley.
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