Many Newcastle United fans have been reacting on social media after The Mirror claimed that West Ham would be interested in appointing Rafa Benitez if they fire Manuel Pellegrini.
The Irons are said to be monitoring Benitez’s situation in China and could move for the Spaniard, who almost succeeded Sam Allardyce in East London when the one-game England boss was relieved of his duties at Upton Park in 2015.
Benitez is currently in charge of Chinese Super League side Dalian Yifang after leaving St. James’ Park in the summer when his contract expired, having failed to agree on new terms with owner Mike Ashley during discussions where he set out intentions of taking a greater control over recruitment and targeting players over the age of 25.
Pellegrini’s position at the London Stadium is currently under threat after a winless run of six league games saw the Hammers plummet down the Premier League table, and entered the international break in 16th place.
The Chilean will be in charge at the weekend when West Ham host London rivals Tottenham Hotspur, but the Irons board are dissatisfied with their current league standing, having expected they would challenge for a European qualifying spot after backing Pellegrini in the summer transfer market.
Benitez has stated that he is happy in China at present, but has admitted in an interview with BBC Radio 5 Live’s Football Daily that he would like to work in the Premier League again and move back to England with his family still living on Merseyside.
Would you be gutted if Rafa joined West Ham?
Yes, it would hurt too much
No, it doen't matter
Here are some of the reactions shared to the Mirror’s report…
They offering him 12 million a season?
— NosleeptillBelmont (@MMBNYI) November 19, 2019
Hope he comes back and Bruce’s NUFC smash his side 9-0.
— Piggy Clown (@ZMXBG) November 19, 2019
I thought West Ham had a reputation for playing attractive football
— Chris (@brumymag) November 19, 2019
If Dalian were tearing it up in the CSL I could understand this, but right now can’t imagine he’d be the immediate appointment, plus him leaving a project after 1 season where they are matching his ambitions?
— David J G (@DavidJG00615083) November 19, 2019
Can’t see West Ham fans having that. Boring, negative football, then listening to him have a good moan every week. They’ll chase him out in no time!
— MrLee (@leescott2510) November 19, 2019
If Rafa does go to West ham,Richard Keyes will automatically hate West ham United.
— MSW (@Toonattics) November 19, 2019
Cracking manager. Will West Ham give him time to build the legacy he craved at Newcastle?
— Andrew Chambers (@AndrewChambers2) November 19, 2019
He will take them into the top 6. Nailed on.
— Simon (@LittleHenryD) November 19, 2019