Rafael Benitez To Stay On As Newcastle Manager

Newcastle manager Rafael Benitez has agreed to stay at the club after holding positive talks with owner Mike Ashley regarding his plans for next season. The Magpies clinched the Sky Bet Championship title on Sunday with a 3-0 victory over Barnsley as Benitez successfully led the club back to the Premier League at the first time of asking.

The former Real Madrid boss signed a three-year contract with Newcastle last May but had hinted he could leave if he and Ashley were not on the same page in terms of the development of the club.

A statement from Newcastle said “Newcastle United can confirm that a meeting has taken place between the club's owner, Mike Ashley, managing director Lee Charnley, and manager Rafa Benitez. It was agreed by all parties that the meeting was very positive and constructive. Mike again congratulated Rafa and his team on gaining promotion to the Premier League as champions. Plans for next season were discussed, including the purchase and loan of players to add to the squad in readiness for the Premier League season.”