Rafa Benitez and Newcastle owner Mike Ashley opened talks on Sunday night to keep the Spaniard at the club.
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Newcastle fans, would you like Benitez to stay, or would you prefer someone with Championship experience?
Benitez is keeping his options open, but he will find it hard to walk away unless something far more attractive comes up which would also allow him to remain in England with his family.
So rather than El Clasico and the Champions League, Benitez will have to prepare his side for trips to Burton Albion and Bristol City.
Benitez had a break clause inserted into his three-year contract in the event of Newcastle’s demotion, and even though he has been linked with a host of top-flight clubs, the former Liverpool and Chelsea boss has revealed he may yet remain at St James’ Park.
“I said before the game that I am really pleased with the fans, the staff, and people here”, Benitez told BBC Sport.
Benitez has held one “positive” meeting with Charnley and is due to speak to owner Mike Ashley in the coming days, although nothing is likely to be resolved until the start of June. If I’m here and discussing it, it’s because there is a chance [I will stay], a good chance.
Rafael Benitez believes there is a “good chance” he will remain at Newcastle despite their relegation after opening preliminary talks with the club’s hierarchy and expects a final decision to be made within a fortnight.
“So things don’t change too much”.
‘It is not easy to leave a club like this’.
“I’ve won trophies but I want to be able to do my job properly and be sure that when you coach the team things are going well on the pitch”. At the moment my priority is the Tottenham game. Let us know your opinions below!
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“We have to think about what we have to do to be here in the Premier League as soon as possible”.
