Benitez had 'chance' to become Spain head coach for World Cup 2018

Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez has admitted he was offered the 'chance' to become Spain's new national team manager for the World Cup, following the dismissal of Julen Lopetegui.

Lopetegui was announced as Real Madrid's new manager, just weeks after signing a contract extension with the Spanish FA, to replace Zinedine Zidane, leaving his boss in the national set-up furious.

As a result he was unceremoniously sacked on the eve of the tournament in Russia, leaving Spain managerless less than 48 hours before their opening game with Iberian rivals Portugal.

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Fernando Hierro stepped in to coach the 2010 winners but saw his side go out on penalties to hosts Russia in the second round.

However, Benitez has now revealed it could have been him leading La Roja this summer, although he insisted he remains happy staying at Newcastle.

"There was maybe a chance," Benitez said. "But still I am here and I am happy to be here. I still feel young so I have plenty of time to do that.

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"Spain I think are a very good team and they will be better in the future."

Spain turned to former Barcelona manager Luis Enrique to take the reins after their World Cup disappointment.