‘I would discuss it’: CL manager refuses to rule out Newcastle move

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Unai Emery has been heavily linked with the Newcastle United job and the Spaniard has opened up about the situation.

The Magpies sacked Steve Bruce about two weeks ago and have been without a manager since. Many expected them to appoint a new boss soon, but PIF and co have taken their time to make sure that they get things right.

Emery, as things stand, seems the favourite. He is currently at the helm at Villarreal and Newcastle will have to negotiate with the Spanish side’s board to get him in. That shouldn’t be a problem, but is the 50-year-old interested in the job?

He refused to rule out a move in his press conference after Villarreal’s Champions League game against Young Boys yesterday.

Unai Emery: I have not said no to Newcastle United

The Spaniard said, as per The Chronicle: “I go to bed as Villarreal coach and tomorrow I will wake up as Villarreal coach.

“If there was any offer, it would be via the club. I’m focused here on Villarreal. I can’t say I’m leaving. I am going to continue preparing for the Getafe game and that is the attitude that I am going to have.”

Asked about the £6 million compensation Newcastle reportedly have to pay to secure his services, Emery said: “In light of this hypothesis, I would speak with Fernando Roig. He would have respect for the squad and the club.

“I would consult it first. If a decision was made it would go either way. It is not that I close or open the door. To the interest (of Newcastle) I’ve not said no. I would discuss it with Fernando and the club. I can not say anything more. My dedication is where I am.”

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If his comments are anything to go by, it does seem like Emery isn’t against moving to Newcastle. If he wasn’t interested, he would’ve shut it down, but the fact that he confirmed that he has ‘not said no’ suggests that he fancies it.

Emery spent about 16 months in England with Arsenal after Arsene Wenger left the Emirates. His time in North London wasn’t really memorable, which is perhaps why he feels that he has some unfinished business in the Premier League.

It will be interesting to see how this pans out. If Newcastle manage to get this deal over the line, Emery would be a sensational appointment. However, if they don’t, they will have to decide on someone else before it’s too late.