Newcastle United's owner Mike Ashley has received a huge amount of criticism after the club opted against handing Rafael Benitez a contract extension.
The Spaniard announced in a statement earlier that he would have stayed at St James' Park if those at the top shared his overall vision.
"It became increasingly clear to me that those at the top of the club did not share the same vision," he said.
"I wanted to stay, but I didn't just want to sign an extended contract, I wanted to be part of a project."
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In his second season in charge, Benitez achieved promotion to the Premier League before spending two seasons in the top flight, despite a lack of funds in the transfer market.
The club overachieved more than anything and understandably, many supporters are angry with the circumstances surrounding his controversial departure.
In fact, Newcastle's tricky situation of late has brought to light some damning stats involving Mike Ashley, comparing their achievements before and after he bought the club.
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In the 12 seasons prior to Ashley's takeover in 2007 they reached two domestic cup finals.
They also progressed to an impressive five domestic or European cup semi-finals and achieved four top four finishes in that time.
Then if you flip the situation and look at the 12 seasons under Ashley's ownership, they have failed in so many aspects.
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Under a number of different managers, including Steve McClaren, Alan Pardew and John Carver, they have failed to break into the top four.
Not to mention their abysmal record in domestic and European competition.
Just check out the overall stats from Ashley's time at the helm via Reddit.
Thoughts on the situation at Newcastle United at present?
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Let us know in the comments below.
Topics: Football News, newcastle, Football, Premier League
