The club have decided to part ways with the Spanish manager after a dismal run of results.
Everton suffered their fourth defeat of the season against relegation-battling Norwich City on Saturday. Continuing their run of only two wins in 14 games, the Toffees slipped to 16th place in the Premier League.
The club announced Benitez’s departure a day after the shock defeat.
“Everton Football Club can confirm the departure of Rafael Benitez as first team manager,” the club’s statement read.
“An update on a permanent replacement will be made in due course.”
The appointment of Benitez at the start of the season was largely divisive among the Everton fans. The former Liverpool manager replaced Carlo Ancelotti, who left the club to join Real Madrid.
Benitez was only able to spend around £1.7million in the summer transfer window. The club signed Demarai Gray, Andros Townsend, Asmir Begovic, Andy Lonergan and Salomon Rondon. However, their recruitments were not enough to improve their performances after the departure of James Rodriguez in September.
The Toffees started the season with three wins out of their opening four games. However, the lack of depth in their squad hampered their form after several waves of injuries and Covid outbreaks.
Benitez ended his Everton tenure with a record of seven wins, 11 draws and four losses in the Premier League. The Toffees also suffered a surprise Carabao Cup elimination by QPR.
The club are yet to announce Benitez’s permanent or interim successor. According to Sky Sports, Roberto Martinez, Rudi Garcia, Frank Lampard, Wayne Rooney or Duncan Ferguson are the candidates to replace the Spaniard.
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