Rafa Benitez has candidly discussed the challenging times he’s faced since his departure from the Premier League.
The 64-year-old, who previously managed Liverpool, Newcastle and Everton, left the English top-flight in 2022 and has been without a club for over a year, despite opportunities to return to coaching. During his time on Merseyside, Benitez clinched the Champions League in 2005 and the FA Cup a year later.
His stint at Goodison Park was short-lived, leaving Everton just six points clear of the drop zone after only six months. He then took the reins at Celta Vigo for a season but was let go after securing just five wins in 28 matches. Benitez has now made it clear that retirement isn’t on the cards and is gearing up for his next venture – having nearly signed with Brazilian outfit Botafogo last month.
“Yes, it was very close,” he admitted. “I had a very good conversation with the owner and also the director of football. They impressed me because they were very ambitious but it was too far away. Then you have to analyse all the details, and my family is here. I was very happy with the approach because I liked the way that they approached. Very professional. And the ideas were very good.
“I have had a lot of offers during the year. But I was always waiting for the Premier League because it’s the league that I like. You have to choose the right opportunity and hopefully it will come soon.”
Just last month, Benitez was seen in the stands at the Etihad Stadium during Manchester City’s 3-2 Champions League defeat to Real Madrid. He was seated alongside England manager Thomas Tuchel.
