Leeds United legend Peter Lorimer feels Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez’s best days at the top are over and feels Whites fans should not be envious of the Magpies.
The Spaniard, who was appointed by Newcastle on an initial three-year deal in March, could not help the club avoid relegation from the Premier League.
Benitez was expected to invoke the break clause in his contract after the Magpies headed down to the Championship, but after a meeting with the club’s hierarchy, the former Liverpool and Real Madrid boss signed a fresh three-year deal earlier in the week.
And, Lorimer, who admitted that he was surprised after Benitez decided to manage in the Championship, thinks top European clubs are no longer interested in the 56-year- old.
The former striker however, insisted that Newcastle will be favourites to win the Championship title next season.
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“Newcastle United have invested in Rafa Benitez and I can see why some in Leeds would be envious of that”, he wrote in his column in the Yorkshire Evening Post.
“He’s a name and he’s got an impressive career behind him but, in truth, I think his days at the top are over. I don’t think he’s a manager who Europe’s biggest clubs are going to look at anymore.
“It’s quite surprising to see him in the Championship but Newcastle will be favourites for the title this season.
"It might well be that no one made him a better offer.”
Benitez, who was sacked by Real Madrid in January, was also linked with taking charge of Everton after the Toffees parted ways with Roberto Martinez earlier in the month.
Leeds meanwhile are yet to decide who will take their head coach job for next season, with Bristol Rovers boss Darrell Clarke the current favourite to get the nod.
