Rafa Benitez closing in on being hired as Everton’s new manager – as majority shareholder Farhad Moshiri looks set to defy the club’s angry fanbase by offering a deal to the ex-Liverpool boss
Everton have held further talks with Rafa Benitez as they creep closer to making him an offer to become their new manager.
Benitez, the former Liverpool boss, wants the opportunity to take on the task of reviving fortunes at Goodison Park. He has become the leading candidate after another round of discussions with Farhad Moshiri, the major shareholder.
There has been widespread discontent among Evertonians, who have not forgotten Benitez’s time in charge at Anfield and in particular comments he made after a Merseyside derby in February 2007.
Rafa Benitez is set to be offered a deal by Everton to become their new manager, angering fans
Moshiri is aware of the feeling but he is proceeding regardless of the emotions. The Iranian billionaire is yet to make a formal offer to Benitez but there is a degree of confidence that one will be forthcoming.
Everton do not have time to waste as the squad is due back at Finch Farm, the club’s training base, for pre-season on July 5 and it is now 21 days since Carlo Ancelotti walked out to take the Real Madrid job.
In that period, they have spoken to a number of managers – including Nuno Espirito Santo – and still have other candidates in the frame such as Brighton’s Graham Potter. Former Everton manager Roberto Martinez also has supporters at board level.