Positive developments on the future of Rafa Benitez at Newcastle United

Reports last night suggested some positive developments have been made regarding the future of Rafa Benitez at Newcastle United – with suggestions that the Spaniard will, in fact, be backed by Mike Ashley this summer (should NUFC gain promotion).

It has been reported by the Daily Mail last night that there is a feeling within St James’ Park that ‘all is well at present’ with recent transfer meetings having been ‘productive’.

The article also states the following, which can only be seen as a positive development:

“Sportsmail understands that owner Mike Ashley has sounded out senior figures at the club in a bid to ensure there is no breakdown in relationship with Benitez, whose mood has calmed following his January fury”

This update was revealed by the often reliable Craig Hope, with the North-East reporter one of the first to break Benitez’s link to become Newcastle United manager in the first place.

Another positive development regarding Rafa and potential summer transfer plans comes from The Chronicle, as Mark Douglas provided the following update yesterday in their live blog:

Should NUFC fans be worried? The last dispatch I heard from SJP was much more encouraging: Benitez has held two transfer meetings recently and the talk is of him getting backed – if the club go up.

And his exclusive Q & A with the Chronicle spoke of a “bright future” at the club – hardly the words of a man likely to leave soon.

This highlights some uplifting news for Newcastle fans, suggesting again that the relationship between Benitez and Ashley is showing positive signs, with renewed optimism that the Spaniard will be backed in the summer transfer window, should Newcastle gain promotion back to the top flight.

As Mark points out, Benitez has not been speaking like a man about to leave. He often talks about the clubs potential and the future, suggesting he has big ambitions for the club which he hopes to see through.

It must be said, however, that this development is only relevant if Newcastle gain promotion, with Benitez more than likely to walk should Newcastle fail to finish the job this term.

Nevertheless, it is great to hear that transfer meetings are progressing well and long may it last, with Rafa Benitez appearing key to any potential success Newcastle may enjoy in the years to come.

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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.