Unai Emery rules himself out of Newcastle manager race

It had been widely reported on Tuesday that the former Arsenal boss was in talks over a return to the Premier League as the front runner to replace Steve Bruce, who was sacked by Newcastle last month following the Saudi Arabian-led takeover at St James’ Park.

It was even said that the Magpies hoped to appoint Emery before Saturday’s Premier League trip to Brighton, though later reports suggested that he had become uncertain over the club’s strategy with the intense speculation coming on the day of an important Champions League fixture against Young Boys of Switzerland.

Emery has now confirmed beyond doubt that he will be staying in LaLiga with Villarreal, whom he guided to Europa League glory last season.