RAFAEL BENITEZ has broken his silence to explain his reasons for quitting Newcastle United – and accused the Magpies hierarchy of failing to share his long-term ambitions for the club.

Benitez’s contract at St James’ Park officially came to an end yesterday, with the Spaniard having rejected the offer of an extension that would have kept him on Tyneside for another 12 months.

Whereas Newcastle issued an official statement last Monday confirming Benitez’s departure, the Champions League winner opted to keep his counsel until his contract was formally at an end.

However, he has issued a statement of his own this morning outlining his reasons for leaving Newcastle and his disappointment at the way in which his time on Tyneside came to an end.

The statement said: “Thank you for three fantastic, exciting and, at times, challenging years.

“What we have had here – your support, your affection and your passion – has been unbelievable for me. St James’s Park has been always special, the 5-1 win against Tottenham was so emotional that since that day I have always felt as though I belonged at Newcastle, and thank you for making me feel so welcome and at home.

“Thank you to everyone at the club who has helped the team, and, of course, to the fine players who grew and fought with us and to the staff (one of the best I have shared time with).

“From winning the Championship to our two seasons in the Premier League, fans, staff and players have all been United. I wanted to stay, but I didn’t just want to sign an extended contract. I wanted to be part of a project. Unfortunately, it became increasingly clear to me that those at the top of the club did not share this vision.

“I’m very sad about that, but I do not regret for one moment my decision to come to Tyneside and I’m very proud about what we have achieved.”