Former Chelsea manager Rafa Benitez has been confirmed as the Newcastle coach. The club is delighted to announce his appointment which takes effect immediately. The club can also confirm the appointment of Fabio Pecchia, Francisco de Míguel Moreno, Antonio Gómez Pérez, who will join Ian Cathro and Simon Smith to form Benitez’s coaching team.
Paul Simpson, Alessandro Schoenmaker and Steve Black will part company with the club with immediate effect.
He said: “I have the pleasure to confirm I have committed to a legendary English club, with the massive challenge of remaining part of the Premier League.
“It will be a challenge not just for me and my staff but for the players, the Club and the fans.
“All of us must push together in the same direction and with the same target in mind. This is the reason why I’m going to ask for your total support to successfully complete this task.
“Personally, it means my return to the Premier League, closer to my home and my family. I can’t be happier. “C’mon Toon Army! The club and I need your total involvement!” Benitez joins United on an initial three-year deal.
The club earlier sacked coach Steve McClaren exactly nine months into his reign. The former England boss took charge at St James’ Park back in June 2015, and leaves the Magpies struggling in the Premier League having recorded just one win in their last six matches.