Rafa Benitez set for Newcastle exit
Since taking over at Newcastle United Rafa Benitez has done an outstanding job.
The ex-Liverpool boss would earn promotion to the Premier League with the North East club in the 2016/17 season.
The Magpies then overachieved massively in their first season back in the English top-flight, finishing in 10th place.
This past season was not quite as impressive but Benitez still managed to guide Newcastle to a 13th place finish.
However, it was announced on the 24th of June that Benitez will leave Newcastle on June 30th 2019, when his contract expires.
It is with disappointment that we announce manager Rafael Benítez will leave Newcastle United upon the expiry of his contract on 30th June 2019.
Benitez is rumoured to have a £12m-per-year job offer from China.
BRIGHTON, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 24: Rafael Benitez, Manager of Newcastle United looks on prior to the Premier League match between Brighton and Hove Albion and Newcastle United at Amex Stadium on September 24, 2017 in Brighton, England. (Photo by Steve Bardens/Getty Images)
Perez to follow in Benitez’s footsteps
With one of their best ever managers set to depart, Newcastle could also be set to lose one of their better players.
According to the Independent, Ayoze Perez is reluctant to sign a new deal with Newcastle, following the departure of Benitez.
Perez featured 41 times for Newcastle this past season, scoring 13 and assisting 4.
As per the report from the Independent, the Magpies were hopeful of signing Perez to a new deal but the striker may now favour a move to Valencia.