Rafael Benitez, the former manager of Liverpool, Chelsea, and Newcastle, finds himself unattached this summer, reflecting on his extensive coaching career and the paths taken by his former players. Benitez, 66, expressed his readiness for a new challenge, stating his desire to continue improving teams and players.
He noted the surprising career trajectory of his former Liverpool colleagues Xabi Alonso and Alvaro Arbeloa, who are set to manage against each other. Benitez highlighted that many of his former players have moved into coaching and management roles, listing over 20 names, including Wales boss Craig Bellamy. He also pointed out Djimi Traore's current role as an assistant coach at Seattle Sounders.
"They always take something from you. Maybe two or three things they can use [as a coach], and I'm happy with that," Benitez said, recalling his influence on his former charges. He reminisced about the 2005 Champions League final, where a player he had considered substituting, Djimi Traore, played a crucial role in Liverpool's comeback victory over AC Milan.
Benitez, who began his coaching journey at Real Madrid over 40 years ago, believes he fulfilled his objectives in his most recent role at Panathinaikos, securing a top-four finish as tasked, despite his subsequent dismissal in May. He compared his drive to his previous experience as a PE teacher, aiming to foster development in young individuals, much like his experience with Anthony Gordon at Everton.
The former manager remains a UEFA technical observer and keeps abreast of modern football by incorporating social media, artificial intelligence, and advanced data analysis into his approach. Benitez acknowledged receiving offers, including links to the Scotland national team, and indicated a potential interest in national team roles, particularly following the World Cup when many teams typically undergo changes.
He emphasized the need for projects with achievable goals, whether that's promotion, as he experienced with Newcastle's passionate fanbase. Benitez also commented on the increased demands of modern football, stressing the importance of patience and resisting the pressure from social media and short-term results to allow for sustainable projects. "That is the difficult thing," he added.