Former Liverpool and Real Madrid manager, Rafa Benitez, is making a return to football management as he takes charge of La Liga side Celta Vigo.
The 63-year-old Spanish manager had been without a managerial position since his departure from Everton in January 2022.
Prior to that, Benitez had a stint as an interim manager at Chelsea. Now, he has signed a three-year deal with the La Liga club.
✅👓 Principio de acuerdo para que 𝐑𝐚𝐟𝐚 𝐁𝐞𝐧𝐢́𝐭𝐞𝐳 sea el entrenador del @RCCelta100 💙#100AnosdeAfoutezaeCorazón
— RC Celta (@RCCelta) June 23, 2023
Benitez will be replacing Carlos Carvalhal, who left Celta Vigo at the end of the previous season after successfully helping the team avoid relegation. Celta finished 13th in the league, securing their safety by defeating champions Barcelona on the final day.
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Celta Vigo praised Benitez’s extensive managerial experience, citing his successful spells at clubs like Inter Milan, Real Madrid, and Napoli.
Notably, Benitez achieved remarkable milestones during his time at Liverpool, winning the UEFA Champions League in 2005 and the FA Cup in 2006. He also claimed the Europa League title during his interim tenure at Chelsea in 2013. Furthermore, he guided Newcastle United to promotion from the Championship.
With his notable achievements and wealth of experience, Rafael Benitez is set to bring his expertise to Celta Vigo as they strive for success in the upcoming seasons.