Real Madrid have hired former Liverpool and Chelsea manager Rafa Benitez on a three-year deal. Benitez had a rather dismal campaign as Napoli boss in Italy, as his side finished 5th, missing Champions League qualification. Benitez’s first managerial job was the Real Madrid B team in 1993-95 and he further went on to manage the likes of Valencia, Liverpool, Inter and Chelsea.
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His predecessor Carlo Ancelotti was loved by the players and fans alike; quite understandably, as the Italian ended the wait for their 10th European Cup – La Decima. He also brought home 4 trophies in a calendar year, a feat no other Real Madrid coach has ever achieved. But a disappointed end to the season ensured that Los Blancos finished without any major trophies. Perhaps, Florentino Perez made a rash decision, given the track record of Rafa Benitez.
The Spaniard has failed to win a single league title since 2004(with Valencia) and his biggest achievement undoubtedly is the Champions League win with Liverpool in Istanbul – 10 years ago. Ancelotti, on the other hand, replaced the mercurial Jose Mourinho, a mean feat in itself but delivered in his first year with two major trophies – the Champions League and the Copa del Rey. Benitez has won his share of trophies as well but his triumphs probably aren’t enough to be sought by a side like Real Madrid.
During his unveiling, Benitez steered away from any questions related to players, quoting: “I don’t focus on individuals.”
The Spaniard was left teary-eyed as Florentino Perez ‘welcomed him home’.
“It’s emotional to come home,” Benitez said. “I don’t know what to say. I want to make sure we win things and the team plays well.”
Is Rafa Benitez a better manager than Carlo Ancelotti? Probably not. Is it the return of the prodigal son? Only time will tell.
Tags: new manager Rafa Benitez Real Madrid
