George Caulkin - NUFC now looking at new manager as club 'accept' Rafa Benitez's fate - What a shambles
According to the Times' George Caulkin, Newcastle are now set to begin their search for a new manager after 'accepting' Rafa Benitez will not sign a new deal.
George's new piece also claims that they've been unable to arrange fresh talks with the Spaniard, suggesting all parties now know where this is heading.
He reluctantly reporter on Friday evening that Rafa had 'one hand on the exit' door, claiming that it would take a late 'miracle' to keep him at the club, and his latest piece today only adds to that bleak picture.
Here's what he's had to say in his crushing Monday morning report for the Times today, claiming Newcastle are now beginning their search for a new boss:
'Newcastle United are to begin the search for a new manager after accepting that Rafa Benítez will not extend his three-year stay at St James’ Park beyond the end of this month.
'With the Spaniard’s contract at Newcastle expiring on June 30, no fresh talks have been arranged and, as things stand, he will leave Tyneside. Benítez will not work under Mike Ashley, the owner, with trust eroded beyond repair and this summer’s takeover saga delaying negotiations and muddying a complicated picture.
'Newcastle have long maintained that they have not given thought to who could replace Benítez, but there is no realistic prospect of the 59-year-old remaining, despite his close bond with supporters and his desire to stay.'
What a complete and utter mess.
Forgetting the dream of a takeover for a moment, we headed into the summer hoping to see Rafa stay and Rondon sign, yet we now look set to lose both, with the likes of Gary Monk currently the 'bookies favourite' to takeover.
Even Rafa would have had his work cut out to get us ready for next season if he signed this week, but any new manager will have a nye on impossible task, with time running out in the summer window and the job itself being somewhat of a poisoned chalice when replacing a god-like figure in Rafa Benitez.
Ashley has made several big mistakes over the last 12 years, but this latest one is, in my opinion, will prove to be his biggest.
Absolutely unforgivable
