Newcastle have confirmed Rafa Benitez will leave the club when his contract expires at the end of the month.
The Magpies have been locked in contract talks with Benitez since the turn of the year but have failed to find an agreement with the Spaniard.
Benitez has spent the last three years at Newcastle and has done a commendable job with almost no investment in the squad.
It is reported during Benitez’s time at St. James’ Park assurances made by owner Mike Ashley over transfers often fell through.
Benitez reportedly has an offer of a lucrative deal from China on the table and Newcastle have now announced they will need a new manager for next season.
“It is with disappointment that we announced manager Rafael Benitez will leave Newcastle upon the expiry of his contract on 30th June 2019,” a statement read on the club’s official website.
“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.”
Rafael Benitez: Premier League record with Newcastle
— WhoScored.com (@WhoScored) June 24, 2019
Games -- 8⃣6⃣
Wins -- 2⃣7⃣
Draws -- 2⃣1⃣
Defeats -- 3⃣8⃣
Win ratio -- 3⃣1⃣.4⃣%
For more team stats -- https://t.co/mV1r94K8lT pic.twitter.com/dvWanl7lJ5
Benitez has been the one glimmer of hope for Newcastle supporters in the last few years and confirmation of his departure is a crushing blow for the club.
Newcastle fans already had a poor relationship with owner Ashley and Benitez’s exit will only make things worse.
Benitez finishes his time at Newcastle with a record of 27 wins from 86 matches in the Premier League (31.4% win ratio).
