Emery to turn down Newcastle interest – Spanish expert Balague

Unai Emery will turn down the chance to become manager of Newcastle United and will instead stay with Villarreal, reports Spanish football expert Guillem Balague.

The 50-year-old former Arsenal boss confirmed on Tuesday he had been approached by the Premier League club, who made him their first choice to replace Steve Bruce.

Newcastle had hoped to have the Spaniard in place by the weekend.

But Balague says those advising Emery were left feeling uncertain about the club’s strategy, with stories in England emerging that the shortlist was down to him and ex-Bournemouth manager Howe – two men with contrasting approaches and vastly different levels of experience within European football.

“Emery felt a huge pressure on the day of their match [a 2-0 win over Young Boys in the Champions League on Tuesday],” said Balague.

“And then there was the lack of a clear vision from the club. If you want him, do you approach him in such a rushed way, without an official offer and with it coming out from the English side that it is all practically done?

“Also, the different number and style of the candidates being considered appears to be a sign of a confused vision. That was a concern to some of those involved in conversations with the club hierarchy.

“I don’t see this move happening now this season. Maybe next year when the club’s structure is clearer and the vision more defined.”

Emery was interested in taking charge of Newcastle following the Saudi Arabia-backed £305m takeover which has made them one of the richest clubs in world football and is believed to have been flattered by their interest in him.

However, when he met with Villarreal’s owners – the Roig family – they attempted to convince him to stay. The club’s players did likewise and his family also told him it was not the right time to move to St James’ Park.