Rafael Benitez to leave Newcastle United when contract expires next week

Newcastle have confirmed Rafael Benitez will leave the club upon contract expiry, on June 30.

Since taking over from Steve McClaren in March 2016, the 59 year-old’s tenure at the North East Outfit has been marred with uncertainty and controversy surrounding the club. With owner Mike Ashley looking to sell and the supporters unhappy at how the club has been run since Ashley joined, Benitez has often been the calming influence within a chaotic, unstable club.

Despite being unable to save Newcastle in his first season, the Spaniard led them back to the Premier League at the first time of asking and has ensured survival over the past two seasons with mid-table finishes.

However after lengthy contract discussions, the two parties have failed to reach an agreement on a new deal.

Newcastle confirmed in a statement on Monday:

“It is with disappointment that we announce manager Rafael Benitez will leave Newcastle United upon the expiry of his contract on 30th June 2019.

We have worked hard to extend Rafa’s contract over a significant period of time, however it has not been – and will not be – possible to reach an agreement with Rafa and his representatives.

Rafa’s coaching staff, Paco de Miguel Moreno, Antonio Gomez Perez and Mikel Antia, will also leave the club on 30th June. We would like to thank Rafa and his coaching team for their efforts over the last three years and their significant contribution to what has been collectively achieved.

We would also like to thank our supporters, players and staff for their patience during a period of uncertainty. The process to appoint a successor will now begin.”

It is understood that Benitez has been in talks to take over Chinese Super League club, Dalian Yifang after being reportedly offered £12 million a year.

The Newcastle squad will return to the club’s Benton Training Centre on Thursday, July 4 for the start of pre-season.