10 Things Newcastle Fans Need To Know About Rafa Benitez

10. Professional Playing Career

Unlike his managerial career, Benitez's playing resume isn't too great. The highlight of his days on the field came in 1979 when the former defender was selected to represent his country at youth level. However, in a 0-0 draw against Canada, the youngster was badly injured after a crunching tackle and went on to be sidelined for a year, realistically ending any real chances of a super successful career. Six years later at the age of 25, Benitez - now 55 - was plying his trade in Spain's second division as player/manager for Linares. Further injuries that year ended his playing career and it is then that Benitez began to make his name in football.