Rafa Benitez has reportedly ruled out a return to Newcastle United as manager following the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund takeover of the club.
According to the Northern Echo, the Everton boss has categorically ruled out on making a stunning comeback to Tyneside. However, as per the report, Steven Gerrard is a ‘viable’ option for Newcastle.
The writing is seemingly on the wall for Steve Bruce following the Saudi takeover of Newcastle. The Premier League manager is yet to win a game this season. And the club board look set to replace the Toon boss.
Indeed, with Newcastle now one of the richest sports teams in the world, the world is their oyster as Amanda Staveley aims to take the northeast club to the pinnacle of football. And replacing Bruce is the first big job on the list.
Yet Benitez will not be the man to replace Bruce. With the £7m-a-year manager only just joining Everton and starting well for the Toffees, it makes sense why the Spaniard is not keen on returning to Newcastle.
Numerous names have been linked with Newcastle since last week’s bombshell story. As per the Northern Echo, Brendan Rodgers is also being viewed as a replacement for Bruce. However, Antonio Conte is not in the running for the position.
Gerrard makes perfect sense as Newcastle manager
However, Gerrard could well be a realistic option for Newcastle. The UEFA Champions League-winning captain has flourished with Rangers since joining the Scottish giants in 2018. And his style of management and recruitment would appeal to the Toon and their supporters.
Moreover, with Newcastle set to hand any manager who comes in with a sizeable transfer budget, Gerrard has the potential to transform the Magpies’ playing staff given his knowledge on the game and contacts in both the United Kingdom and Europe.
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