Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez has admitted his future at St James’ Park is still uncertain, in a week he’s been tipped to take charge of Celtic, as reported by The Daily Record.
The Magpies could lose Benitez forever in just four weeks time, with his current deal set to expire at the end of the season.
Owner Mike Ashley appears to be stalling on giving him an answer on a new contract, despite the Spaniard apparently wanting to stay in the North East.
Benitez refused to be drawn into the speculation too much during his pre-match press conference earlier today, but did confirm he’s still had no word from the decision makers at the club.
As quoted by The Daily Record, the 58-year-old said: “It is exactly the same situation that I had before, so I am waiting and the main thing if I am asked about this is just to talk about the game, and I just try to get three points.”
The continuing uncertainty comes as former Celtic player Johan Mjallby tipped Benitez for the Hoops job, telling the paper: “Why not? You can’t talk Celtic down. Obviously, Rangers have had difficult years but they are massive clubs and either one of them should win the league every year. But even if you have been the manager of big clubs in other major leagues, the pressure you have as a Celtic manager is enormous. But you have the chance to win trophies every year at Parkhead.”
Benitez has the experience, success and status that would likely make him a unifying choice as manager, with supporters crying out for the club to show a similar ambition that resulted in the decision to bring Brendan Rodgers to the club in 2016.
Winning La Liga trophies, the UEFA Champions League and the UEFA Europa League, Benitez ticks all the boxes and could be an inspired choice to lead the club towards a hallowed nine and ten titles in a row.
Is Rafa Benitez a realistic choice to take charge of Celtic? Have your say in the comments below…