The Spaniard says he wants to replicate his six-year spell in charge of Liverpool.
Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez
Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez has told the Chronicle he is hoping for an extended spell at St James Park, similar to the one he enjoyed at Liverpool.
The Spaniard spent six years in charge at Anfield before departing the club in 2010.
It was a highly successful spell on Merseyside, during which he won the Champions League and the FA Cup as well as finishing second in the league in 2009.
He now finds himself in the North East, where he is aiming to re-establish Newcastle as a Premier League force once again.
Liverpool Manager Rafael Benitez and Steven Gerrard celebrate winning the Champions League with the Trophy
That is very much a long-term aim for the club at this moment in time and it appears Benitez is keen to stay for as long as possible.
“I was really pleased there [at Liverpool] and I am really pleased here,” he told the Chronicle.
“Hopefully I can stay here for as many years here as I was there. Winning something here – that would be perfect for everyone.”
Newcastle United’s Jonjo Shelvey celebrates with Manager Rafael Benitez and teammates after scoring their second goal
The Magpies first aim must be securing promotion from the Championship this season.
After a shaky start in the division, losing their first two games, they have established themselves over the last few weeks and now look certain to be challenging at the top.
If they can do that, then the Newcastle fans will be dreaming of enjoying success under the Spaniard’s leadership.
Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez
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