Newcastle United: Rafa Benitez’s ambitious plans for the academy

Newcastle United’s boss discusses future plans to improve the club’s academy.

Newcastle United and manager Rafa Benitez have a clear mission in front of them, as they aim to earn enough points during the final eight games of the 2017-18 season to remain in the Premier League. Future player development is a priority as well, and the Magpies boss has several plans set to be put into action.

Speaking to the The Chronicle recently, Benitez expressed his desire to see major improvements for Newcastle’s academy and will be much more involved with the process once top-flight safety is secured. Last week, several U-23 players were released and informed that they were not meeting the necessary standards.

“To bring players through from the academy is not easy. We have to improve things around to make sure we can promote players in the future.”

The Spanish tactician also acknowledged that the battle against relegation has taken away some his focus, and rightfully so considering how important it is to stay in the first division.

“The fact that we were in the Championship last season and have been coming back into the Premier League means you have to concentrate all your energy into staying up.”

The Magpies are currently in Spain for a training camp and will play a friendly against Royal Antwerp tomorrow afternoon during their break in competitive action.

Eventual changes

Evidenced by many youngsters departing recently, Benitez will want to see changes in how the academy is set up and in how talent is developed.

Dan Barlaser, who is now out on-loan with Crewe Alexandra, certainly represents potential. Although he is a bit of a new arrival, Victor Fernandez has earned praise and is currently training with the first team in Spain.

Benitez will want a complete overhaul, and have an academy system in place that can contribute at the Premier League level. “We want to create the situation where some of the players have a chance to stay in the Premier League and help the squad – or even make the difference (in the first XI) if it’s possible.”

Next: Top five transfer needs for Newcastle United

Newcastle United and Rafa Benitez want to have a successful future together, and ensuring that the club is consistently producing talent is a great way of guaranteeing that success.