OPINION
Newcastle United fans will be preparing for the worst as the end of the season approaches, with the future of beloved manager Rafa Benitez very much up in the air.
The Spaniard, whose contract is coming to an end, has made his feelings clear on a lack of investment from his higher-ups, with funds needed for transfers, infrastructure and the academy if he is to take the club to the next level.
Benitez has also been clear on his feelings for Newcastle however, with the 58-year-old clearly in love with the city, its passionate fans, and the club itself.
That being said, there will need to be a sea change among club bosses if Benitez is to sign a new contract, and many clubs are already circling for the talented tactician.
As reported by the Chronicle, there are clubs in China, Italy, Spain and Russia all interested in Benitez.
Worst of all however is the fact that Premier League rivals Leicester City are also keen on hiring the Spaniard, with the future of their boss Claude Puel uncertain.
Benitez moving to a direct division rival in the summer would be a nightmare scenario for Newcastle fans, who have revered the 58-year-old for three seasons now.
It is however a distinct possibility, with Benitez known to love life in England and the Premier League, with Leicester also willing to back their managers in the market.
Benitez will likely take Newcastle into consideration when choosing his next job, but that will not necessarily stop him from taking a job at the King Power if the offer is right.
If that were to happen then Newcastle fans would have endless nightmares, with their beloved boss likely to take Leicester to the next level while leaving them scrambling for Premier League survival.
