Whilst their seemingly inevitable Premier League relegation truly knocked the stuffing out of the side, Newcastle United fans can, ever so slightly, smile again after it was confirmed that Rafa Benitez will manage the side through next seasons Championship campaign.
Whilst Rafa’s short Premier League tenure with the Magpies saw him unable to clinch safety, a 6 game undefeated run culminating in three wins gave Geordies everywhere hope that that club wasn’t moving in the right direction. A spellbinding reception for the Spaniards from the home contingent during the sides 5-1 final day win over Spurs perhaps charming the manager into submission.
Following much speculation linking him with such manager less sides as Everton, the former Real Madrid boss signed an initial three year deal yesterday afternoon.
Speaking to the club’s official website, Benitez said:
“I am extremely pleased to be staying at Newcastle United.
“The love I could feel from the fans was a big influence for me in my decision to stay, as was my relationship with Lee Charnley and all the staff.
“This is a huge club and I wanted to be part of the great future I can see for Newcastle United.”
Managing director Lee Charnley added:
“When we brought Rafa to the club in March, we knew he was a phenomenal manager and everything we have seen from him since has only served to reinforce that.
“We are therefore delighted to have secured his services for the next three years and I believe with Rafa as manager it gives us the best possible chance of returning to the Premier League at the first time of asking and delivering success for this football club beyond that.
“It is clear that Rafa has connected deeply with the club’s supporters and we do not underestimate the role they have played in his decision to stay.
“He has captured the hearts and minds not just of the fans, but of everyone who has had the pleasure of working with him at the club thus far.
“As a world-class manager we had no doubt in our minds as to the importance of retaining him at Newcastle United.”
A further announcement regarding Benitez’s coaching staff will be made in due course.
Let’s see if the addition leads to some long overdue luck for the Newcastle faithful.