The Spaniard has the respect of the Newcastle United supporters; although perhaps not the full trust of the owner.
Amid the recent reports that Rafael Benitez has been lined up on a much-publicised shortlist of potential Arsene Wenger replacements, as reported by The Sun, a number of questions present themselves.
Firstly, would Arsenal really succeed their coach of 20 years with a manager who has averaged a different club every other season throughout his career? And, most importantly, why would Benitez turn his back on his adoring Tyneside public for arguably the most melodramatic fanbase in the English game?
After all, Benitez has made clear his respect for the Newcastle faithful. Their commitment and reverence is not easily forgotten after encountering contempt at Stamford Bridge, division in Naples and white handkerchiefs aplenty at the Santiago Bernabau.
And that’s without mentioning the fact that Newcastle are top of the Championship table.
Despite reported divisions with owner Mike Ashley over his apparent refusal to sanction any January spending, former Magpies John Barnes believes there is little chance of Benitez waving farewell to Tyneside any time soon.
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“If you are top of the league I can’t see that there are too many problems. Obviously Rafa is a fantastic manager and Newcastle will get promotion,” one-time Newcastle winger Barnes said in quotes reported by The Chronicle.
“Managers always want to sign players so Rafa will be disappointed that he didn’t manage to sign the players that he may have wanted.
“However, they have a big enough squad and have the best squad in my opinion, allied with a good manager who has the support of the fans.”
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He makes a good point. Newcastle will surely be a Premier League team come May and Benitez appears to have fallen in love with the North East.
The chances of him jumping ship for the capital are remote at best.
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