Everton manager search: 47-year-old reportedly in running alongside Rafa

Everton are still on the lookout for a new manager in wake of Carlo Ancelotti’s shock Goodison Park departure.

The Toffees are apparently in talks with Rafael Benitez, which hasn’t gone down well amongst some fans.

However, the former Liverpool boss isn’t the only one in the running, according to ESPN.

The outlet cites sources saying the appointment is now likely to come down to a straight choice between Benitez and Roberto Martinez.

Everton manager comeback?

The former Everton boss is reportedly open to a return to club management at Goodison Park.

Martinez had a three-year spell in charge of the Toffees between 2013 and 2016.

Everton sacked him on 12 May 2016, with one game remaining of the 2015-16 Premier League season.

This took place amid an increasing number of protests against his management during games, as reported by BBC Sport at the time.

Since then, Martinez has done well at Belgium, leading them to a third-placed finish at the 2018 World Cup.

The Red Devils are top of the FIFA world rankings and won their first Euro 2020 game, beating Russia 3-0.

Martinez was also being linked with the Spurs job a month ago.

A report in The Guardian claimed Tottenham were eyeing the 47-year-old as Jose Mourinho’s replacement.

The Daily Mail then claimed that the interest was reciprocal, though it looks as though Tottenham will soon appoint Paulo Fonseca.