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Rafael Benitez sticks with Newcastle United – Twitter reacts
Much to the delight of Newcastle fans around the globe, it was announced on Wednesday evening that Rafael Benitez would be staying on as manager of the club, having been unable to keep The Magpies in the Premier League, but nevertheless turning around their fortunes and displaying potential of brighter horizons. The three-year contract will be music to their ears, and the
“The love I could feel from the fans was a big influence for me,” he said.
“This is a huge club and I wanted to be part of the great future I can see for Newcastle United.”
The former Liverpool and Real Madrid boss only arrived in the North East in March, and after a stuttering start to his tenure, soon began to bring the fans firmly onto his side after overseeing some determined performances in the final few matches of the campaign. What was arguably just as impressive was the fact that several Newcastle United players who had looked disinterested and lazy under Steve McLaren, were now revitalised into an almost unrecognisable state. was one of the more obvious examples, but it seems as though the Toon will not be graced by his presence next term as the Frenchman hankers for a move away.
Now that they have received the news that they so desired, what does Rafa’s presence at the reins of the club mean for their immediate and long-term future? Of course, despite his vast array of awards in the European club game, the Spaniard has never managed in England’s second tier – a division that is notoriously tougher than almost any other. Is he really the best man for the job, considering Newcastle United’s current plight?
One thing for certain is that Benitez will have to overhaul the squad, with far too many of the playing staff not appreciating the meaning of pulling on a black and white shirt at St. James’ Park. A core of hardened Championship players should form the pillar of their squad for the 2016/17 season to give them the best opportunity of bouncing straight back up. Only time will tell if the club follow this path, perhaps looking to emulate the a similar group to Kevin Nolan, Joey Barton, and Steven Taylor when they last suffered relegation.
Here’s how Twitter reacted to the news:
While some marvelled at the somewhat startling news…
Leicester win the premier league and Rafa Benitez is heading into the championship as a manager 🙈😂
— Leighton Carhart (@lCarhart)
Whatever else you might say about Newcastle United, could any other club outside a top flight in world football have secured a Rafa Benitez?
— Alan Biggs (@AlanBiggs1)
There was a more calm reaction reaction from others…
My biggest respect to Rafa Benitez. Sticking with a club that loves him.
— Paul (@Kolology)
Rafa Benitez has failed at his last three jobs consecutively. So a trip down to The Championship comes as no surprise. Offers have dried up.
— John Merro (@johnmerro1)
And of course, the odd bit of humour slipped in too….
Well done to Rafa Benitez on winning Masterchef
— Nooruddean (@BeardedGenius)
Rafa Benitez has reportedly signed a 3 year deal at Newcastle…
— ODDSbible (@ODDSbible)
Let us know how you think Rafa Benitez will get on as manager of Newcastle United in the Championship next season. Can he lead The Magpies back to the top flight?
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