Former Newcastle boss Rafa Benitez hints at possible next destination after Everton sacking

Former Newcastle United boss Rafa Benitez has hinted at a possible return to Italy in the latest interview addressing his future. The popular ex-Toon manager is currently out of work after being sacked by Everton in January.

Benitez remains a popular figure on Tyneside following his three-year spell in charge at St James' Park. The former Liverpool and Real Madrid boss remained with the Magpies following relegation in 2016, guiding the club back to the Premier League at the first attempt before securing successive mid-table finishes.

Benitez opted against agreeing a new deal at Newcastle in the summer of 2019 following a fractious relationship with the former owner Mike Ashley. The 61-year-old has since endured disappointing stints with Chinese outfit Dalian Pro, and most recently a turbulent seven-month tenure at Goodison Park.

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Benitez has previously managed in Italy with Inter Milan and Napoli, and in an interview with Italian media has seemingly outlined a desire to return to the Serie A. The former Newcastle boss said: "Obviously as a professional manager, I'm open to every opportunity right now. I love football, and I love talking about football.

"We said earlier when you speak with an Italian journalist or fan, they know what they are talking about. I like Italian football, people say the level is not as good at it used to be.

"The issue is not about the youth sector or foreign players, it's about having a work methodology which allows you to develop players, and allow them to think and understand what is going on on the pitch."