With Rafael Benitez now bound for China, we’re taking a look at the latest Newcastle next manager odds to see who is in line to succeed the Spaniard at St James’ Park.
The Magpies have also parted company with key forward Ayoze Perez this summer, so a high-profile appointment is needed to get the Toon Army back on side.
Arsene Wenger and Patrick Vieira have played down rumours linking them with the job, but another Arsenal old boy still heads the betting in our list of potential replacements:
MIKEL ARTETA @ 5/2
The 37-year-old was an assured midfielder for Everton and Arsenal in his playing days and has quickly carved out a big reputation for himself in the coaching ranks as assistant to Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. Persuading him to leave such a superb set-up at Etihad Stadium won’t be easy, though, especially as the top job there could be up for grabs in the next couple of years.
ROBERTO MARTINEZ @ 5/2
Has a strong CV after stints with Swansea, Wigan and Everton, where he enjoyed plenty of high points despite having limited resources – a trait which will definitely appeal to Mike Ashley. However, after leading a hugely-talented Belgium team to third place in the World Cup, the 45-year-old may want a crack at Euro 2020 glory before returning to club management.
QUIQUE SANCHEZ FLORES @ 4/1
Ticks plenty of boxes after impressing with Watford a few seasons ago, leading the Hornets to a comfortable mid-table position and the FA Cup semi-finals. A subsequent move to Espanyol started well enough before faltering, while a switch to China only lasted six months, but the big plus point is that he is available and free!
CLAUDIO RANIERI @ 9/2
Still commands respect for having led Leicester to a shock Premier League title triumph, even if a return to England with Fulham quickly turned sour. Kept himself busy with a short-term contract at Roma last term and could be seen as a safe pair of hands.
GARRY MONK @ 8/1
Has only been a manager for just over five years but has already had four clubs in Swansea, Leeds, Middlesbrough and Birmingham. The manner of his departure from St Andrew’s raises concerns but there can be no questioning his coaching ability.
GIOVANNI VAN BRONCKHORST @ 8/1
A stellar playing career saw the Dutchman represent Feyenoord, Rangers, Arsenal and Barcelona with distinction and he has since led the first-named club to an Eredivisie title as manager, before leaving this summer. Being a Knight of the Order of Orange-Nassau, with over 100 international caps, the 44-year-old is seen as an exemplary character and has made no secret of his desire to join the Magpies.
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