Everton have sacked Rafa Benitez as manager.
The Toffees have confirmed the Spaniard’s departure after yesterday’s 2-1 loss at Norwich City.
Everton have been in wretched form and won just one of their past 13 Premier League games. As a result, they’ve dropped to 15th in the table.
Despite only taking charge at Goodison Park last summer, the axe has been wielded on Rafa Benitez amid fan fury.
Now the search is on to find his successor.
An Everton statement said: “Everton Football Club can confirm the departure of Rafael Benitez as First Team manager.
“Benitez, who joined Everton in June 2021, has left the Club with immediate effect.
“An update on a permanent replacement will be made in due course.”
Here are the early frontrunners to become next Everton manager, according to bookmakers Paddy Power.
*Odds correct at time of publication.
1. Wayne Rooney - 6/5
The former Everton striker is carrying out a magnificent job at Derby amid administration.
Photo: Mark Thompson/Getty Images
2. Duncan Ferguson - 7/2
The former Toffees forward is a huge fans’s favourite and did an excellent job as caretaker manager in the past.
Photo: George Wood/Getty Images
3. Roberto Martinez - 4/1
Managed Everton for three years between 2013-2016. Now in charge of Belgium
Photo: Jan Kruger/Getty Images)
4. Frank Lampard - 13/2
The former England international out of work since he was sacked by Chelsea last season but is hungry to get back into management.
Photo: RUI VIEIRA/POOL/AFP via Getty Images