Villarreal’s President Fernando Roig admits Unai Emery’s future is out of their hands amid interest from Newcastle.
News broke this morning that Amanda Staveley and Co had identified the former Arsenal boss as the man to replace Steve Bruce, who was sacked exactly a fortnight ago.
Emery, a four-time Europa League winner, is preparing his side to take on Young Boys in the Champions League tonight, yet The Times’ Martin Hardy and The Mail’s Craig Hope reckon it’ll be his last game in charge before he leaves for Tyneside.
Yellow Submarine supremo Roig has since spoken about his manager’s future ahead of the game, saying a contract is in place – but he is ultimately helpless due to a €6million release clause in the deal.
This is what he said to A Punt Media:
“Emery is very happy in Villarreal and has a contract in force.”
“I have no doubts about Unai’s professionalism.”
“It is not a decision of Villarreal’s.”
The last line says it all. Money talks and clause in his contract is there to be activated, meaning he may already have one foot in Newcastle should a return to the Premier League appeal.
The Spaniard guided Villarreal to the club’s first major honour in May when he defeated Man Utd in the Europa League final on penalties – a win that saw them qualify for this year’s UEFA Champions League.
