Newcastle United made a determined effort to appoint Mikel Arteta as their manager in the summer of 2019, according to a new report. Then-owner Mike Ashley identified Arteta as his first choice to replace Rafa Benitez and indicated to staff that he was ready to offer an unusually long contract to secure his services.
Benitez's Departure and Ashley's Pursuit
Benitez left St James' Park that summer after his contract expired, ending a three-year spell in charge. Newcastle said in a statement that it had "not been possible to reach an agreement with Rafa and his representatives" over an extension. The Spaniard guided the Magpies to 13th in the Premier League in his final season, having previously led them to promotion from the Championship.
According to The Telegraph, Ashley was willing to offer Arteta a deal described as "far longer than a rookie manager would usually expect" to persuade him to move to Tyneside. Arteta is said to have been tempted by the opportunity as he considered taking on his first managerial role.
Arteta's Decision and Arsenal Move
However, the report claims the timing did not suit his preferred coaching staff. Arteta reportedly approached several key figures as he weighed up Newcastle's offer, but ultimately turned down the opportunity. A few months later, he succeeded Unai Emery as Arsenal manager.
Newcastle eventually appointed Steve Bruce as Benitez's successor, while Arteta went on to establish himself at Arsenal, where he has since won major honours including the FA Cup.
