HOW’S this for a major twist in the next Chelsea manager market?
Jose Mourinho has been the subject of a FLURRY of bets this morning which has put him amongst the favourites for a sensational return.
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This search for a new manager is already a familiar situation for owner Todd Boehly, having only appointed Mauricio Pochettino 11 months ago and letting him go this week, with Graham Potter and Frank Lampard failing to impress in the dugout.
Despite the familiarity, it’s somewhat of a surprise to see Pochettino leave, given the flourishing finish to the campaign which saw them secure a Europa League spot and sixth place finish.
And some of the Chelsea players have taken to social media to share their surprise at the events that have unfolded.
That mutual parting saw Poch’s Chelsea record end at 26 wins, 11 draws and 14 defeats in his 51 matches at the helm.
The support for Enzo Maresca (13/8) came fairly quickly and he established himself as the frontrunner.
Kieran McKenna (9/4) is another one widely tipped to take the role, though he’s in contention for both the Manchester United and Brighton vacancies.
But incredibly, the betting markets have been forced to react this morning after what they say are a ‘flurry of bets’ for the Special One to return.
He’s been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia recently having been out of work since parting ways with Roma at the beginning of this year.
Betfair prices
Mourinho – now a 4/1 shot with Betfair from 50/1 – won three Premier League titles, an FA Cup and three League Cups across his two spells in charge at Stamford Bridge.
Now, incredibly, he’s the fourth favourite in the betting to replace Pochettino.
Ruben Amorim (7/2) is just ahead of him and is another to have received sustained support.
The Sporting boss looks set for a move this summer having held talks with West Ham earlier this month and was widely tipped for a move to Anfield to replace Jurgen Klopp.
Roberto De Zerbi (10/1) and Thomas Frank (12/1) come next as they too continue to be linked with new jobs in the Premier League for this coming season.
Betfair spokesperson Sam Rosbottom said: “Punters have backed Jose Mourinho to become Chelsea’s next manager after a recent flurry of bets with his odds slashed from 50/1 to 4/1 on Friday.
“The former Chelsea manager is the fourth-favourite to occupy the role for a third time while Leicester boss Enzo Maresca is the 13/8 favourite.
“Kieran McKenna follows behind at 9/4 with Ruben Amorim 7/2 to fill the Stamford Bridge hot seat.”
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