‘My favourite would be Steven Gerrard’: How pundits and key figures reacted to Rafa Benitez’s Newcastle exit
Rafa Benitez’s departure from Newcastle United has prompted a huge response from pundits and key figures alike.
Click and scroll through the pages to see how they have reacted to the dreaded news...
5. Malcolm MacDonald
I’m not surprised but I’m horrified. He has pulled off miracles in the way he has been able to keep Newcastle up. He is a manager that is a lot better than what he has had to deal with. I feel very sad. Photo: Stu Forster
6. Pete Graves
Desperately disappointing. That's an understatement. An absolutely massive job now to appoint a successor that can try and unite the fans like Rafa did. Honestly I'm shocked. Still believed this morning they'd somehow find a resolution this week. Photo: Twitter picture
7. Mick Quinn
Feared the worst, and its happening Rafa leaving NUFC. They offered him a one year contract and no assurances. Rafa is a world-class manager he loved his time at the club and it's another sad and embarrassing day for this big club. Photo: Alan Crowhurst
8. Lynsey Hipgrave
Absolutely gutted, and I don’t blame Rafa in any way. I can’t imagine it’s anything to do with his wages but commitment of funds in window. He’ll see the sale falling through (again) and him left with £10m and asked to work miracles again. Photo: John Phillips