The agent of Giovanni van Bronckhorst has confirmed his interest in the manager’s role at Newcastle United.
The Magpies are looking for a new manager to replace Rafael Benitez after confirming his exit at the end of his contract and the Dutch boss’ representative Guido Albers has revealed his client would be happy to speak to the Magpies’ board over the vacancy.
Speaking to the Chronicle, Albers said: “I think the rumours have come a little bit early and no-one from the club has spoken to Gio. But I think every coach in the world would be interested in working in the Premier League.”
“And what we would say if a club like Newcastle has an opportunity to work for them then, of course, he would be interested in doing that. It is an amazing club with an amazing fanbase but it’s up to them who they decide to go for.”
The 44-year-old enjoyed a successful spell in his role in charge of Feyenoord. The former Dutch international won three major trophies during his spell in the Eredivisie, alongside two Super Cup triumphs – a title contested as a season opener between the cup winners and league champions as the Community Shield is in England.
Van Bronckhorst will leave Feyenoord after 176 games in four years at the club, finishing with an impressive point per game average of 1.99. [Transfermarkt]
OPINION
There is no time for anyone involved at Newcastle to be sulking after the departure of Rafael Benitez. They must make sure their list of candidates is confirmed so that talks can be held as soon as possible for the Spaniard’s replacement. Giovanni van Bronckhorst isn’t the big name that many will have been expecting in the North East, but he has certainly started his managerial career well at Feyenoord. Starting with their under-21 squad, the former midfield enforcer was promoted to take charge of the senior squad where he delivered great success. Winning five trophies is no easy feat, especially in a league that has been dominated by teams such as Ajax and PSV Eindhoven in recent years. The 44-year-old will also be available as a free agent this summer after confirming he will leave the Dutch club when his contract runs out at the end of June – similar to Benitez. The Feyenoord man might not be marquee appointment, but his short success as a coach certainly backs up his case to make the move to St James’ Park.
