Rafa Benitez has again said he will not be working as a pundit over the summer months and one reason is that he doesn’t want to criticize his fellow managers.
When you are a pundit on TV you are “good” if you criticize people – it seems like the more, the better.
And of course, if you are in a high position like managers of some top clubs, you will get a lot more criticism.
Rafa Benitez in training
Rafa has been interviewed in the Shields Gazette today and was asked if he would do TV work this summer:
“I don’t like too much to go to the TV, because I was there, and I have done it as a pundit, and you have to analyze things in a professional way.”
“And with respect for the other managers, the other people.”
“I don’t think that’s interesting for anyone! They want you to say something more.”
It may be that after the season finishes a week on Sunday Rafa will have to continue to discuss his contract with the Newcastle hierarchy – and maybe for some weeks.
His contract runs out on June 30th.
It’s just a little ridiculous the Rafa still hasn’t signed for us yet.

Comment welcome.
5 comments so far
Spencer
May 2, 2019 at 1:06 PM
Comment #1Great to have you back Ed!! Had us worried buddy!
RobLeenio
May 2, 2019 at 1:24 PM
Comment #2I can’t imagine Rafa as a pundit – he talks too much sense!
😀
Slatymag
May 2, 2019 at 1:25 PM
Comment #3Good to hear from you Ed! As always your work on this blog is much appreciated. Take care.
RobLeenio
May 2, 2019 at 1:28 PM
Comment #4lesh from earlier.
I can’t help thinking we’re talking at cross purposes. You’re talking what would happen at a normal club where the owner took an interest, the manager was seen as the key employee and every effort was made to improve the club.
I’m talking about NUFC, where the owner can’t be ar$ed, negotiations are delegated to the organ grinder’s monkey and the manager is made to feel worthless.
Yes, Ashley should be involved in the negotiations to make Rafa stay. With the way things are set up, at this point he doesn’t need to be as Charnley is apparently his representative.
toonluvva
May 2, 2019 at 3:09 PM
Comment #5I think that Rafa should now concentrate on preparing the side for the last two games of the season.
Then he should polish up his CV and show Ashlie he won’t take his B/S anymore.
Next a “mishap” should befall his mobile just in case Charnlie or Ashlie should try to contact him. Renew contact on 29th June with a these are my FINAL terms, take them or I’m off.
I would much rather have Rafa stay, but he needs backing from above. If that is not forthcoming he can leave with my thanks for what he has done for us.