Newcastle United fans left 'gutted' as Rafa Benitez closes in on 'shocking' Premier League return

The 61-year-old remains a highly respected figure on Tyneside following his three-and-a-half years at the club – and there were lingering hopes he’d return in the future, particularly if the Amanda Staveley-brokered takeover is eventually approved.

Instead, the 61-year-old is on the brink of taking charge of the Goodison Park club.

@Paul_Usher1: Absolutely gutted.

@NathanTillley: Heartbreak central.

@john_o_w: Rafa will be able to go home to his family every night. He has nothing to prove to anyone. Good luck to him.

@ConnorKeegan20: With his connection to Liverpool I actually find that shocking.

@LittleHenryD: Well thank you Premier League. The kick in the family jewels I didn't want. Good luck to Rafa but should have come home.

@BigJNUFC: Pain.

@PaulSutcliffe80: Gutted.

@Percycola: Watch what Rafa Benitez can do with a decent squad, the right infrastructure and support financially from the owners.

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