24 Jun Benitez to depart Newcastle United

Newcastle United and manager Rafael Benítez will part ways once his contract expires on June 30.

Benitez and the Magpies failed to come to an agreement on a new deal following a protracted negotiation process.

The Spaniard took charge of a troubled Newcastle in March 2016 and secured Premier League promotion the following season.

Working within tight financial restraints, the Toon finished 10th and 13th under Benitez in his two full seasons in England's top flight.

Newcastle owner Mike Ashley is reportedly in talks to sell the club to United Arab Emirates billionaire Sheikh Khaled bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Manchester City assistant Mikel Arteta and former Swansea boss Gary Monk are the early favourites to replace Benitez with the new Premier League season set to get underway on August 8.

A world class manager. A manager who performed so well in very difficult circumstances. A manager who understood the fans. Thanks and good luck @rafabenitezweb you were brilliant for the Toon. #SHAMBLES

— Alan Shearer (@alanshearer) June 24, 2019