Newcastle United boss Rafael Benitez has responded to speculation linking him with Arsenal.
Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez
Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez has told the Shields Gazette that he is concentrating on his job amid links to Arsenal.
The Magpies are in Championship action this evening, as they travel to Carrow Road to take on Norwich City in a vital game as the two sides chase promotion back to the Premier League.
Newcastle claimed a narrow 1-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers over the weekend, with Aleksandar Mitrovic’s goal keeping the Magpies one point clear of Brighton and Hove Albion at the top of the Championship table.
Now seven points clear of third placed Huddersfield Town, Newcastle remain on course for promotion back to the top flight, and it seems that Benitez’s work at St. James’ Park is attracting some interest.
The Mirror reported over the weekend that Arsenal have shortlisted Benitez in case Arsene Wenger leaves the club at the end of the season, with the Frenchman’s contract set to expire this summer.
The Gunners are preparing for life after Wenger, and could be searching for a new manager for the first time in over 20 years, after luring Wenger from Nagoya Grampus Eight in 1996.
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger
Benitez would be a shock appointment for the Gunners, though the report suggested that he would help nurture Thierry Henry, with his experience seen as a major selling point for Arsenal.
Ahead of tonight’s game with Norwich, Benitez has told the Shields Gazette that he is just focused on his job rather than the Arsenal rumours, and is used to having speculation surrounding him.
“I’m the manager for playing against Norwich and then the next games,“ said Benitez. “That’s it, so I’m just focused on that. As a manager you are used to having clubs talking and the media talking, so what you have to do is just concentrate on your job,” he added.
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