Newcastle United as he reminded the club
strengthening would be needed on their return to
the Premier League.
The Spaniard's side celebrated a return to the top
flight on Monday with a 4-1 win at home to
Preston North End guaranteeing promotion from the
Championship.
Benitez, who signed a three-year deal in May last
year, said he was unsure what his future held as he
hinted he would need significant transfer backing
to ensure Newcastle were competitive next season.
"You never know, that is football," he said when
asked about his future.
"I am really pleased to be here, and really happy
and proud for everything we have achieved.
"Hopefully we can put in the foundations for
something that will be a guarantee for the future.
The fans have been amazing with me, their loyalty
means everything.
"Having this city behind you means everything.
They should have a top team. That is why I decided
to stay, and now I am even happier than before that
I made this decision. I am really proud and really
pleased.
"Now is the time to enjoy what we have done. But
then I must make sure we do the right things.
"We have to prepare everything to be strong
enough for the Premier League."
The players celebrate tonight's win and
an instant return to the @premierleague !
#NUFC pic.twitter.com/2JH4eckRa9
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) April 24,
2017
A brace from Ayoze Perez and goals from Christian
Atsu and Matt Ritchie saw Newcastle to their 27th
win in 44 league games this season.
Benitez, whose team sit second to Brighton and
Hove Albion, was delighted with the hard work
done by his side.
"It feels really good. I'm really proud of everyone
because we knew it would be difficult at the
beginning, when everyone was saying, 'Rafa has no
experience of the Championship and it will be
tough'," he said.
"They were right, it was very difficult, but the
commitment and hard work of the players every
day, and the staff and everyone involved, and then
the support of the fans, has made a massive
difference.
"It is a day we have to remember because it is not
easy to go down, and then come straight back up
first time."
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