Recently sacked manager ideal candidate to replace Benitez at Newcastle

It does not seem likely nor logical that Rafa Benitez will remain Newcastle United manager beyond this summer. The contract of the Spaniard at St James’ Park is due to come to an end at the end of the season.

He has openly criticised the club on a number of occasions for failing to back him sufficiently in the transfer market. The former Liverpool boss has worked wonders at St James’ Park since he arrived at the club in 2016. However, his patience must be running out and understandably so.

Benitez will surely attract offers from other top clubs due to his experience and reputation and it would be logical for him to move to a side who will give him better treatment. One manager who has been linked with the Magpies should they end up parting ways with Benitez is former Huddersfield Town boss David Wagner. The German was recently sacked as Town boss with the club rooted to the bottom of the standings.

Journalist close to Mike Ashley says David Wagner now being considered to replace Rafa Benitez #nufc https://t.co/J3eB0WoZgT pic.twitter.com/mSXm7bkeAi

— The Mag (@NUFCTheMag) February 9, 2019

In spite of this, the 47-year-old performed nothing short of a miracle last term by keeping the club in the top flight despite having had arguably the weakest side on paper. Wagner can definitely get the best out of players who are largely mediocre as he did at the Terriers. While he would likely be working with a much larger budget should he join Newcastle, this will undoubtedly work in his favour.

Newcastle United are a side full of rich history and if they do end up with a managerial vacancy, it is likely to attract a lot of managers. However, Wagner is one name that they should give particular thought to due to his experience and recent history.