Reports in Spain have suggested that Rafa could be a target for Real Sociedad in the summer.
The Basque side are said to be looking for a new manager for next season with the Spaniard a leading candidate for the role.
On Twitter, supporters were pretty annoyed by the constant rumours surrounding the boss’s future at the club:
Here we go again …
— ♠ Gus ♠ (@Gustoon) April 4, 2018
— beth (@bethmann99) March 31, 2018
— kieren mchale (@KierenMchale) April 3, 2018
Interesting, considering he parted company with his European agent because he doesn’t want to manage outside of England anymore
— Andy (@andylockhart88) April 3, 2018
Only chance we have of Rafa staying is if Ashley sells, if he doesn't sell Rafa will go.
I think once we are confirmed safe PCP will complete a takeover…it's just to weird that it has gone so quiet since Ashley pulled the plug, A gentleman's agreement maybe.— Anthony I'Anson (@AnthonyIAnson) April 4, 2018
Any chance a takeover deal is in place once Prem survival is confirmed?
— Richard Hodges (@richowenhodges) April 4, 2018
worse case senario Ashley stays and RAFA goes
— colin frew (@FrewColf999) April 4, 2018
If we're sold it's a non story.. if we're not.. then i thank him, wish him well and hope his next owner treats him better…
— Gary Hardy (@hardy1473) April 4, 2018
— Toon Army Portland (@ToonArmyPDX) March 31, 2018
Verdict:
A lot will depend on Mike Ashley. There’s no doubt that the club are keen to keep Benitez, but if the current ownership remains in place, and no takeover happens, there would certainly be more doubts over whether the manager will stay.
If he is given a bigger transfer kitty, which is certainly not guaranteed with this owner, then I think Rafa maybe open to a new contract to stay for longer than his deal that runs out at the end of next season.
He has built this club back up with very little help from the board, and if he is given a freer rein, who knows what could happen?