Rafa Benitez eyes Premier League return, open to Serie A move

By SABC Sport
25th May 2025

Veteran manager Rafa Benitez has his sights set on a return to the Premier League - or potentially Serie A - as he looks to step back into coaching after a year out of the dugout.

Speaking to ESPN, the 65-year-old Spaniard confirmed he's eager to return to management, ideally in England or Italy, though he's keeping an open mind.

"I like the Premier League because of the intensity, the pace of the game - and I know the players, I know the environment," said Benitez. "Italy is another country I like. Spain too, but there aren't many teams left for me there when you've already coached Valencia and Real Madrid."

Benitez has been out of coaching since March 2024, when he was dismissed by LaLiga side Celta Vigo after a poor run that left the club hovering just above the relegation zone. He managed just nine wins in 33 games, with three of those coming in the Copa del Rey against lower-tier opposition.

Despite the underwhelming stint at Celta, Benitez's resume remains one of the most decorated among active managers. His trophy cabinet includes two LaLiga titles with Valencia, a Champions League win with Liverpool in 2005, a Coppa Italia with Napoli, and domestic trophies with Chelsea and Inter Milan.

Now working as a technical observer for UEFA - analyzing matches and mentoring coaches - Benitez insists he's far from done.

"I want to continue coaching because I have the energy and the experience," he said. "The hard part is finding the right project - a team that gives you the chance to compete. People might think I'm winding down because I've been out a year, but I'm ready."

Benitez has coached four Premier League clubs: Liverpool, Chelsea, Newcastle United, and most recently Everton, where his time ended in 2022. His last spell in Italy was with Napoli, which ended in 2015.

While he's waiting for the right opportunity, Benitez made one thing clear: he's not ruling anything out. "I'm not stupid," he joked. "If a good project comes from anywhere and the conditions are right, I'll take it."

With several clubs across Europe expected to make managerial changes this summer, Benitez could soon be back where he feels most at home - on the touchline.