Should Newcastle United start looking at other managers?
By Durim Halimi
Frustration, tension and uncertainty surround Newcastle United at the moment. Should the front office shortlist other managers in case Benitez walks this summer?
Firstly, let me make the intention of this article clear. This article is not meant to stir new rumors nor does it intend to promote the idea that Rafa Benitez should walk. Instead, this article aims to highlight the current tension and uncertainty that has surrounded the club and simply suggests that Newcastle United would be wise to look at other managers if Benitez declines a new contract.
With that being said, the tension surrounding the Magpies is crystal clear. Benitez has never received sufficient financial backing from Mike Ashley and this has created a toxic environment on Tyneside. Supporters and other neutral observers of the Premier League acknowledge that the Champions League-winning manager deserves much better.
After taking Newcastle back up to the Premier League and earning a miraculous top ten finish last season, Benitez has done enough to boost his resume and is worthy of managing an elite club once again. Benitez has repeatedly stated that he wants to stay and transform this club into a title contender, but it is difficult to imagine him signing a contract extension if Ashley still owns the club. As a result, Newcastle should start planning ahead by looking at potential coaching candidates.
Manager Qualifications
The potential replacements for the Spaniard will most definitely have to be experienced managers who understand what it takes to succeed in the Premier League. A recent report stated that several agents have contacted Newcastle’s executives expressing interest on behalf of their clients.
Newcastle is a popular landing spot for many managers due its history and stadium. The fact that Sir Bobby Robson, Kevin Keegan and Rafa Benitez have been managers at the club show that it can attract top quality tacticians on the sideline.
Newcastle need a manager with a proven track record of developing and maintaining consistency in the Top Flight. The last thing Newcastle should do is hire a manager that is known for jumping around from one club to another just to stay employed. Like Benitez, Newcastle’s next manager – assuming the Spaniard leaves – must have an impressive resume and a long-term vision for this team.