Rafael Benitez has now used an intermediary to tell Newcastle United that he has no interest in returning, the Northern Echo report.
Benitez to Newcastle?
There had been some suggestions recently that Newcastle’s new owners were eyeing up a fairytale return for Benitez at St. James’ Park.
However, the Everton boss is known to be a manager who is keen to see out his contract.
And despite the lure of a return to Newcastle, where he is hugely popular, it seems he has no interest on turning his back on Everton.
Who next for Newcastle?
That means that Newcastle may have to go back to the drawing board, as they seek a new manager.
The Magpies have been linked with a huge number of names since Steve Bruce’s departure, and even before, it – but they are yet to arrive at a final decision.
Benitez’s return would likely have been a hugely welcome moved on Tyneside, given his previous success in charge.
Benitez led Newcastle out of the Championship and stabilised them as a Premier League, despite spending a fraction of what Steve Bruce did.
But he is new to his role at Everton and prising him away from Goodison Park always appeared a tough challenge, even with their new found fortunes.
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