Rafa Benitez explains Newcastle exit; slams Mike Ashley

Rafa Benitez has for the first time explained the reasons why he has decided to leave Newcastle United. The popular Spaniard called time on his Toon Army managerial career after a reported disagreement with club owner Mike Ashley.

Premier League legend Rafa Benitez has previously coached Liverpool and Chelsea before his spell with the Toon. 

Benitez has explained why he decided to leave after a three year spell at the club in a statement.

Benitez wrote: "I wanted to stay, but I didn't just want to sign an extended contract, I wanted to be part of a project. Unfortunately, it became increasingly clear to me that those at the top of the club did not share the same vision. I'm very sad about that, but I do not regret for one moment my decision to come to Tyneside and I'm very proud about what we achieved together."

Benitez has been linked with numerous jobs across Europe, including a return to his former club Chelsea, but is likely to return to his home country of Spain or Germany.