Former Newcastle United boss Rafa Benitez spoke on BBC 5 Live Sport about a potential return to St. James’ Park in the future.
The Spaniard took charge of a struggling Magpies side in March 2016. Benitez couldn’t keep them up that season, but he stayed and helped them earn promotion immediately.
He left the club at the start of last season and that caused outrage among supporters. Benitez is still adored by Newcastle United fans and a majority of them would love to have him back at the club in the future.
The Spaniard was asked about a potential return, and he admitted that a job in the Premier League is his target.
Benitez wants to return to England
He said, as quoted by Chronicle Live: “When I left Newcastle, I was waiting until the last minute for a takeover, but obviously, it didn’t happen. I have a very clear idea that in the situation it was impossible to stay, even if I was really pleased and really happy there.
“If you remember when I went to Newcastle we were fighting until the end and we were relegated. In the last game we played against Tottenham and I think it was maybe one of the best games in the history of Newcastle and we beat them 5-1 with 10 men. The fans this day were amazing and I decided to stay this day because of them.
“So with all of these things in your head, if I decided to stay when we had no money, imagine with a takeover. At the moment I have a lot of respect because I have a job and I am very grateful to Dalian and Wanda but the Premier League is a target for me.”
That, predictably, raised excitement levels among Newcastle supporters. Magpies fans want their beloved former manager back, but that isn’t likely to happen as long as Mike Ashley remains at the club.
Newcastle are still trying hard to have their takeover bid accepted by the Premier League. If that happens, Benitez will be many fans’ first choice to be the next manager, and the Spaniard will be welcomed with open arms if he agrees to come back.
Here is how a few Newcastle fans reacted to his comments
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