Exclusive: Newcastle tipped to hire ‘Sexier’ manager than Benitez after huge Sky update
Danny Mills has muted a potential return to Newcastle United for Rafael Benitez and suggested the imminent takeover could see an even “sexier” appointment.
The former Leeds United full-back, speaking exclusively to Football Insider correspondent Dylan Childs, suggested the prospective new owners would instant opt for a manager who a more attacking brand of football.
Sky Sports journalist Keith Downie claims it is “almost inevitable” that, if the consortium fronted by Amanda Staveley are successful in purchasing the Magpies, they would move to bring Benitez back to the club in what would be a sensational move.
Benitez left the Magpies last summer and signed a two-and-half-year deal with Chinese side Dalian Yifang.
However, the decision to leave Tyneside appeared to be due to the club not matching his ambitions – his affinity with the fans clear.
When asked by Football Insider if he could see the return the 60-year-old returning to St. James Park under new ownership, Mills said: “When you look at the brand of football Benitez plays – it is not the most exciting on the planet.
“If you have new owners coming in it could be an opportunity. What is he on in China? About £25million? That is a big chunk of cash to fork out on a manager that does not play sexy football.
“Yes, he is an incredibly good manager but he is pragmatic. He will be successful but I wonder if they might want to go for somebody younger. Someone that is going to have that wow factor instantly.
“It is a gamble because with Rafa you know what you are going to get and you know the club is going to proceed in the right direction.”
Steve Bruce’s future is now the subject of great speculation and despite the Magpies sitting in 13th in the Premier League there has been disgruntlement from fans during his tenure.
Benitez spent just over three years with the Toon, winning the Championship in his first full season in charge.
In other Newcastle United news, Michael Brown has told Football Insider details of his conversation with Alan Shearer on Edouard transfer.