TheCable

Rafael Benitez has been confirmed as the new coach of Newcastle United on a three-year deal.

Benitez, former Real Madrid manager, said after the confirmation of his appointment that he was happy to return to the Premier League and live closer to his home and family.

“I have the pleasure to confirm I have committed to a legendary English club, with the massive challenge of remaining part of the Premier League,” the club quoted him as saying.

“It will be a challenge not just for me and my staff but for the players, the Club and the fans. All of us must push together in the same direction and with the same target in mind. This is the reason why I’m going to ask for your total support to successfully complete this task.

“Personally, it means my return to the Premier League, closer to my home and my family. I can’t be happier. The club and I need your total involvement!”

Lee Charnley, the managing director declared the club’s happiness over the signing of the club new manager, saying: “I am very pleased to welcome Rafa Benitez to the club. In Rafa we have, without doubt, secured the services of one of Europe’s top managers.

“He has managed some of the most successful teams at the very highest level of the game and we are proud to now have him as our manager. Our sole focus now is to give our full support to Rafa, his coaching team and the players in order to secure our status in the Premier League.”