Spanish journalist Guillem Balague claims that ex-Real Madrid boss Rafael Benitez has previously held talks about the managerial role at Newcastle United.
Benitez was controversially relieved of his managerial duties at the Bernabeu on Monday after just 25 games in charge, with Madrid legend Zinedine Zidane stepping into the void left behind by the the former Liverpool manager’s departure.
The revered Spanish tactician boasts a highly impressive CV, with vast experience at a number of top clubs across Europe’s elite divisions, as well as an admirable collection of silverware.
Surprisingly, respected La Liga reporter Guillem Balague has revealed that Benitez has held unsuccessful talks about taking over the Newcastle managerial hot seat in the past, whilst claiming that the 55-year-old is keen on making a return to the Premier League.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Balague said:
“He (Benitez) wants to come to the Premier League, quite clearly. And do people not think it is unfair what they have done to him, almost as though he has won credit having been sacked after 25 games?
“He has negotiated with Aston Villa in the past, Newcastle too. I don’t think he will be in a rush, but his heart is absolutely in the Premier League.”
Although there has been no suggestion that Newcastle are looking to part company with current head coach Steve McClaren in the near future, SkyBet have installed the Magpies as Benitez’ most likely destination should he make a return to the English top flight – with the odds currently sitting at 16/1.
Newcastle have endured a torrid start to life under McClaren since he was announced as John Carver’s successor seven-months ago, although the size of the rebuilding job that the former England manager inherited cannot be underestimated.
The Magpies’ performances have somewhat improved over recent weeks, but a bewildering failure to convert any of their gilt-edged opportunities in front of goal means that they remain two points adrift from safety in 18th place, having suffered three consecutive 1-0 defeats.
If the Magpies did decide to pull the trigger and part company with McClaren, it’s unlikely that a manager of Benitez’ calibre would be willing to take over at a club languishing in the Premier League’s relegation zone with less than half of the season remaining.
However, despite a move to Tyneside appearing to stretch beyond the realms of possibility, many disenchanted Newcastle fans would welcome the arrival of the pioneering Spanish coach with open arms.