Unai Emery admits it was not the 'right moment' to leave Villarreal after being asked about his decision to turn down a job offer from Newcastle United. The former Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain boss looked set to succeed Steve Bruce and become the first major appointment of the new era on Tyneside following the takeover.
However, Newcastle's pursuit of Emery was played out in the public domain and the 50-year-old opted to remain with the La Liga outfit. The Magpies ultimately plumped for Eddie Howe, while Villarreal would go on to enjoy a remarkable run to the Champions League semi-finals.
It was a humbling setback at the time for Newcastle's new owners, although Howe has since proven himself to be the right appointment after spectacularly delivering on his immediate remit of securing survival. Emery's reputation following a troubled stint at the Emirates Stadium has been rebuilt after Europa League success was backed up with knockout victories over Bayern Munich and Liverpool last term.
READ MORE: Newcastle United's transfer approach so far proven right as Eddie Howe opts for patience
Villarreal's stars from that Champions League run are tipped to one day move on to bigger clubs, while Emery himself admits he will likely accept a 'new challenge' in then near future. But when asked about Newcastle's offer in November last year, the Spanish boss simply told the New York Times 'it was not the right moment'.
It is not the first time Emery has publicly discussed the offer from Newcastle. The Villarreal boss was more forthcoming about the Tyneside opportunity in an interview with the Athletic in April, stressing he was flatted by the prospect of the 'serious project' and a Premier League return.
Emery said: “The Newcastle project is an attractive project, something to build, different to Arsenal. With Arsenal, you first had to knock down the walls, which is hard work, then start to build again.
“Newcastle no, it was just about building, from the ground up. So it is different, and I liked the idea. The Premier League is an attractive league for all us coaches. So when Newcastle called me, I thought a lot about the opportunity to return to England, to a serious project.
“For me, it was a source of pride, satisfaction and I appreciated it. The opportunity of a club like Newcastle, what it could turn out to be, it is normal for me to listen to the offer, to consider it.”
READ NEXT
Joao Pedro makes simple two-word vow as Watford supporters beg Newcastle transfer target to stay
Joao Pedro's telling reaction to Newcastle transfer bid hints at character test he's passed
Newcastle United's new youth mantra clear after Graeme Carrick interview admission
Newcastle United handed Christian Pulisic transfer boost as Chelsea stance emerges
Newcastle United already proven right in deciding against £40m gamble on 'top player'
