Latest Premier League betting news & odds after Rafael Benitez leaves Newcastle

Not even the presence of Jose Mourinho at the head of the betting to become Newcastle's next manager can lift the gloom around Tyneside as bookmakers slashed the Magpies for relegation following the confirmation that Rafael Benitez would be leaving the club

Paddy Power went several steps further and paid out on United to go down next season with Newcastle best at 7-2 for the drop down to the Sky Bet Championship.

Newcastle had been 6-1 for relegation prior to Benitez's confirmed departure before nearly halving in price.

Benitez has had Newcastle punching above their weight in each of the last two campaigns, finishing tenth in 2017-18 and 13th in 2018-19, despite working on a tight budget.

A club statement said: "We have worked hard to extend Rafa’s contract over a significant period of time, however it has not been - and will not be - possible to reach an agreement with Rafa and his representatives."

Mourinho heads the betting to replace Benitez at 6-1 - the Portuguese had been linked with the post when talk of a takeover was at fever pitch - but he does not seem the type to put up with Mike Ashley for too long.

Avram Grant and Mikel Arteta are next in the market at 9-1.

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