Rafa Benítez could've been Spain's coach at the World Cup in Russia
The coach told English media he was offered the role to be Spain's manager by Luis Rubiales
Rafael Benítez, who is the current manager of Newcastle United, was very close to becoming Spain's manager this summer. Benitez revealed this himself as he spoke to the English media. Following Lopetegui's surprise sacking, Luis Rubiales offered Benitez the chance to take control of the Spain team throughout the World Cup campaign.
Rafa told 'The Sun': "There was a chance. But still I am here and I am happy to be here." The same newspaper confirmed that Benitez would've only been in charge for a maximum of five weeks and would then return to Newcastle.
Newcastle were happy to let Rafa take temporary charge of the national team, and the coach was happy to as well, but the lack of time available to thrash out a deal meant Spain had to choose Fernando Hierro instead.
The former Real Madrid coach still has a year left on the deal he signed at Newcastle and is currently preparing his side for the Premier League debut on the 11th August against Tottenham Hotspur.
