Jose Mourinho ‘rejects chance to become Everton boss and will stay at Roma as search for Benitez replacement continues’
JOSE MOURINHO has reportedly snubbed the chance to become Everton manager to stay at Roma.
The Toffees board called an emergency meeting on Saturday night following their disastrous 2-1 loss at strugglers Norwich.
That led to Rafa Benitez getting the sack after just 19 Premier League games in charge at Goodison Park with Mourinho and Wayne Rooney both targeted.
Former Liverpool boss Benitez, who guided the Reds to Champions League glory in 2005, was only appointed manager in late June on a three-year contract but lasted little more than six-months.
The result at Carrow Road left Everton just six points off the Prem drop zone and in freefall.
They had also lost nine of their last 12 league matches, despite beating Arsenal at home 2-1 in December.
Now speculation is mounting over who will replace Benitez – but it will not be Mourinho.
The Special One took over at Roma last summer and he has no intention of leaving to return to England anytime soon.
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That’s according to Fabrizio Romano, who tweeted: “Jose Mourinho will not leave AS Roma during the season.
“He’s definitely staying and planning for Roma future – Everton job not in his plans as things stand.”
Wayne Rooney is now edging closer to a sensational return to Everton as manager.
Former England captain Rooney, 36, made his name as a young player at Goodison Park.
He and Mourinho are being seriously considered by Toffees owner Farhad Moshiri and chairman Bill Kenwright to replace axed Rafa Benitez.
Derby gaffer Rooney looks set to be interviewed by the pair.
Former Chelsea boss Frank Lampard — out of work since being sacked just under a year ago — is also in the frame.
Duncan Ferguson has been appointed as caretaker manager for a second time and will be in charge against Aston Villa.
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