Former Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez could soon make a high-profile return to football.
Benitez, who managed Newcastle United between 2016 and 2019, has been out of work since leaving Celta Vigo in 2024.
While Newcastle have moved on since the Benitez era, the Spaniard remains a popular figure on Tyneside.
He was one of few bright spots during the otherwise bleak Mike Ashley era, so it’s always interesting to hear about what is happening in his career.
Particularly when it could involve working with one of Eddie Howe’s best players in Sandro Tonali.
Rafa Benitez in line for Italy manager’s job
The Italian national team are in crisis. Despite winning Euro 2020 (which was played in 2021), the Azzurri have missed two consecutive World Cups.
Norway beat Italy 3-0 earlier this month and while they did beat Moldova a few days later, the Italian football federation sacked Luciano Spalletti.
| Games | Wins | Draws | Losses | Trophies |
| 146 | 62 | 30 | 54 | 1 |
Tonali is one of Italy’s most important players but could again miss out on a major tournament. He wasn’t in their Euros winning squad, missed Euro 2024 due to his ban from football and his country did not qualify for the 2022 World Cup.
Interestingly, Italian football journalist Nicolo Schira has revealed that Benitez has been offered to Italy as an interim coach.
It would be fascinating to see what Benitez makes of Tonali. That would feel like two eras of Newcastle United colliding.
Why the Italian media are starting to turn on Sandro Tonali
The Italian media slammed Tonali for his performance against Moldova, suggesting he’s starting to look tired.
They claim he’s never looked like that before since returning from his ban, but it is perhaps best explained by the fact all of the players are coming off a long season at club level.
Benitez would be an interesting appointment for Tonali specifically. The former Inter and Napoli coach obviously has a lot of experience in Italian football, while also boasting great knowledge of all things Newcastle.
Italy are in crisis, just as Newcastle were in 2016. Benitez could be the man to save them too.
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