Rafa Benitez to leave Newcastle United at the end of the month after failing to reach agreement on new deal
Newcastle United have announced that manager Rafa Benitez will leave the club upon expiry of his contract on 30 June 2019.
Benitez, 59, has spent just over three years in charge at St James' Park since replacing Steve McClaren in March 2016.
The club said:
The Magpies finished 13th in the Premier League last season as Benitez secured the club's top-flight status.
Here's a timeline of his big moments at the club.
Speaking in May, Rafa spoke about his desire to "match the ambitions of the fans".
Former footballers and fans have been reacting to the news:
The Magpie Group are planning a 'peaceful protest' at St James Park.
This fan speaks for many in his utter bewilderment at the situation.
One fan said, "I feel quite emotional - like someone just died".
Newcastle United footballers have thanked Rafa for the last three years:
Newcastle Central MP Chi Onwurah said the news is so sad for both NUFC fans and Rafa Benitez: