Former Liverpool and Chelsea boss Rafael Benitez says that he wants a managerial position at a Premier League club.
The Spanish coach was recently fired by Real Madrid, and ahead of Los Blancos’ Champions League Round of 16 tie against Roma, Benitez spoke about his future with BT Sport.
“Obviously I like the Premier League.
“That is a priority, because my family lives on the Wirral.”
When asked by Gary Lineker if he’s specifically looking into taking on an English job, Benitez said:
“Especially for my wife!
“For one month, it’s fine with the family, the children, but after one month she says, ‘come on, you have to get a job’.”
Benitez has previously managed in the Premier League on two occasions, though did not lift the title with either Liverpool or Chelsea.
He is fondly remembered for his time with the Reds, however, as he won the club’s memorable fifth European Cup. A Steven Gerrard-inspired team triumphed in the 2004/05 Champions League.
His ability at a continental level similarly shone with the Blues, with Benitez leading the west London side to Europa League victory in 2012/13.
The challenge for Benitez, who has only managed “big” clubs over the last decade is where will he find an opening in the Premier League. He was offered the West Ham job last summer, which he turned down to go to Madrid. If Rafa wants to return to the Premier League he will probably have to take a side in the bottom half of the table. Would he be happy managing the likes of West Brom, Swansea or Newcastle?
Where do you think Rafa ends up next season?
