Newcastle's Rafa Benitez 'not a candiate' to succeed Arsene Wenger at Arsenal

Rafa Benitez is not on Arsenal's shortlist of managerial candidates, according to a report.

By The Newsroom

Published 25th Apr 2018, 14:07 BST

Updated 25th Apr 2018, 14:31 BST

Manager Arsene Wenger last week revealed that he would step down at the end of the season after 22 years in charge.

Benitez has been linked with the post ahead of discussions on his own future at Newcastle United with owner Mike Ashley at the end of the season.

The 58-year-old is 14/1 with bookmakers to succeed Wenger.

However, Sky Sports claim that Benitez and Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers are "not thought to be strong candidates".

Arsenal chief executive Ivan Gazidis reportedly favours former Arsenal midfielder Mikel Arteta, who is now on Manchester City's coaching staff.

Former Barcelona manager Luis Enrique is the bookies' favourite, while Hoffenheim's Julian Nagelsmann and Schalke's Domenico Tedesco are also said to be under consideration.