Relief for NUFC fans as trusted reporter reveals positive news on Rafa Benitez’s position

Just hours after David Sullivan confirmed a ‘high-calibre’ manager was ‘very close’ to being appointed at West Ham, trusted North-East reporter Martin Hardy has revealed that it looks set to be Manuel Pellegrini – easing fears over Rafa Benitez’s future.

It doesn’t change the fact that Rafa is clearly unsettled and needs assurances from Ashley to stay beyond this summer, however it’s news that could come as a welcome bit of relief for several anxious NUFC fans.

Sky announced on Thursday night that Newcastle were ‘confident’ that Benitez would remain at the club, and that ties in with the idea that ex-Man City boss Pellegrini is in line to takeover at the London Stadium.

Pellegrini also fits the bill perfectly when you look at West Ham’s statement on Thursday afternoon. They said they were ‘very close’ to appointing a man with a ‘proven record’ both in the ‘Premier League’ and ‘European football’ and whilst Rafa also fits that bill, it sounds just like Pellegrini too.

For what it’s worth, reports in Chile are also saying that Pellegrino will be unveiled as West Ham’s new boss on Monday.

As I said at the beginning, this doesn’t change the fact that there’s a lot to sort between Benitez and NUFC before we can start looking ahead, but hearing noises that he WON’T be their new manager is at least reassuring for now.

(Fancy writing for us? Send any articles/ideas over to us at [email protected] & we’ll get back to you!)

About Olly Hawkins

As a Junior Magpie since birth and season ticket holder, I eat, sleep and breathe all things NUFC! Here at the blog, I aim to bring you news, views, match reports and transfer exclusives as and when I get them.

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