Rafael Benitez Takes on Panathinaikos Head Coach Role After Stints with Liverpool Newcastle and Everton
Rafael Benitez has been named the head coach of Panathinaikos, a prominent football club in Greece. This marks the 15th team Benitez has led in his storied managerial career. The 65-year-old Spanish tactician takes over after Christos Kontis was dismissed following a 3-1 loss to Feyenoord in the UEFA Europa League.
Benitez’s New Chapter at Panathinaikos
Currently, Panathinaikos sits seventh in the Greek Super League. The club has endured a series of disappointing performances, suffering consecutive defeats in the Europa League. Benitez’s contract reportedly spans two years, valued at approximately four million euros (around £3.5 million) annually.
Recent managerial history
Before joining Panathinaikos, Benitez managed Celta Vigo, where he was let go in March 2024 after less than a year in charge. This followed his previous role at Everton, where he was dismissed in January 2022. His tenure at Celta Vigo was marked by challenges as he sought to restore the club’s competitive edge.
Achievements and Experience
Rafael Benitez boasts an impressive resume. He led Liverpool to victory in the 2005 UEFA Champions League and the 2006 FA Cup. His tenure at Chelsea saw him claim the 2013 Europa League title. Additionally, he played a crucial role in Newcastle’s promotion from the Championship during the 2016-2017 season.
Throughout his career, Benitez has managed several top clubs, including:
- Valencia – where he secured two La Liga titles and the UEFA Cup.
- Inter Milan
- Napoli
- Real Madrid
Benitez began his managerial journey with Real Madrid’s under-17 team in 1986, later taking charge of Real Madrid Castilla. His career includes various roles at other clubs, including stints at Valladolid, Osasuna, Extremadura, and Tenerife, before his significant impact at Liverpool starting in 2004.
Looking Ahead
With his extensive experience, Benitez aims to turn around Panathinaikos’s fortunes in both the domestic league and European competitions. Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching his strategies as he begins this new chapter in his career.
