RAFA HITS THE BIG 1,000 BARRIER
RAFA Benitez has spoken of his pride at reaching a landmark 1,000 games in professional football management but admits social media has made his job more difficult.
The Spaniard brought up the number during Newcastle’s win over Wigan on Wednesday but only informed his staff on the team coach heading home.
The 56-year-old, who began his coaching career with Real Madrid B and has since taken charge of Valencia, Liverpool, Internazionale, Napoli and Real Madrid, said: “I was really proud.
“There are so many games in football now it is difficult to be in charge for such a long time.
“The most important thing was to win against Wigan but obviously after I thought of that.”
Benitez joined Newcastle in March of this year and was unable to save them from relegation but has stuck with the Magpies in England’s second tier.
The Magpies boss conceded that technology has made his job trickier over time.
“Social media has made it harder,” he added. “When things used to happen in the dressing room they stayed in the dressing room.”