June 23, (THEWILL) – Rafa Benitez, the 63-year-old former Liverpool and Everton manager, is on the verge of becoming the new manager of Celta Vigo.
Although Benitez had received offers to coach in Saudi Arabia, both parties are confident that a three-year agreement will be finalised in July ahead of the upcoming pre-season. After his dismissal from Everton in January 2022, Benitez has been actively seeking a new managerial role in one of Europe’s top five leagues, and now it appears that he will be returning to his native country.
Celta Vigo, who finished 13th in La Liga during the 2022/2023 season, has been actively searching for a new manager since Carlos Carvalhal departed by mutual consent earlier this month. Benitez’s extensive experience, which includes successful stints at Liverpool, Newcastle United, Real Madrid, Napoli, Inter Milan, and Valencia, makes him an appealing candidate for the position.
His notable achievements include winning the UEFA Champions League with Liverpool in 2005 and leading Newcastle United back to the English Premier League in 2016/2017. Benitez’s imminent appointment at Celta Vigo marks a significant return for the seasoned manager to his home country. Despite being linked to managerial positions at West Ham United and Leicester City last season, Benitez has patiently awaited the right opportunity to reestablish himself in one of Europe’s premier leagues.
The agreement in principle with Celta Vigo not only provides Benitez with the chance to showcase his managerial prowess but also offers the club a seasoned tactician with a proven track record.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
