In today’s press conference building up to Sunday’s game against Barnsley, Rafa Benitez has provided an update regarding his upcoming meeting with Mike Ashley.
Benitez refused to confirm he’d be at the club next season after last Monday’s 4-1 win over Preston that sealed promotion, with the Spaniard’s future appearing to be on hold until he meets with NUFC owner Mike Ashley to discuss his plan.
When asked about the eagerly anticipated meeting, Benitez said the following today:
“Hopefully I’ll meet with the owner next week and move in right direction. I have seen figures that ‘Rafa is asking for this and that.”
“I will not ask for money. I will have a plan and give my ideas to the owner.”
“I have the same ambition for this club as the fans.”
“But I understand that we need to talk. I am calm and know what we need to do.”
After numerous reports claiming Rafa will ‘demand’ certain sums of money this summer, it is reassuring to hear Benitez speak calmly and clearly regarding his requirements.
It is clear that Benitez will enter talks with Ashley with a pragmatic approach, but it’s not the Spaniard we need to be worrying about.
We can only hope and pray that he and Ashley are on the same wavelength when the two meet next week, with the outcome of their showdown pivotal to the future of our beloved club.
