In March 2016, the football world was surprised when Rafael Benítez accepted the challenge of managing Newcastle United only 2 months after leaving Real Madrid. Those 2 big teams are also available to bet from your mobile devices once you make the 1xBet download procedure too.
The Spanish coach, who had previously won the UEFA Champions League with Liverpool and league titles with Valencia, made a big move. He went from one of the biggest clubs in the world to a team fighting relegation in the Premier League.
Benítez’s time at Real Madrid had been short and difficult. He was appointed in June 2015 to replace Carlo Ancelotti, but despite respectable results, tensions inside the club and criticism from supporters damaged his position. Reports of disagreements with important players, including Cristiano Ronaldo, increased pressure on the coach. After only 7 months in charge, Real Madrid dismissed Benítez in January 2016 and replaced him with Zinedine Zidane.
On 11 March 2016, Newcastle United announced Benítez as their new manager after sacking Steve McClaren. Newcastle were in 19th place in the Premier League and were struggling to avoid relegation. And by deciding to download the 1xBet application, you will also bet on the Premier League from any place and at any moment.
Benítez signed a 3-year contract and immediately called for unity between the players and supporters. His arrival gave hope to Newcastle fans, who were amazed that a coach with such an impressive résumé had agreed to join a club in crisis.
Unable to avoid relegation but earning a great deal of respect
Although Benítez improved the team’s performances, Newcastle were ultimately relegated to the Championship in May 2016. However, the Spaniard decided to stay at the club instead of leaving. That decision earned him enormous respect among supporters. Many believed that a manager of his level would never remain in England’s second division, especially after recently coaching Real Madrid.
Benítez quickly rebuilt the squad and guided Newcastle back to the Premier League at the first attempt, winning the Championship title in 2017. During his years at St James’ Park, he became one of the most admired managers in the club’s modern history because of 3 aspects:
- his professionalism;
- his tactical discipline;
- and his strong connection with the fans.
The move from Real Madrid to Newcastle showed Benítez’s willingness to accept difficult challenges. Instead of choosing an easier job at a successful club, he took responsibility for a struggling team and helped restore pride and stability to Newcastle United.