Rafa Benitez is making his managerial comeback with Panathinaikos, where he is set to become the highest-paid coach in the history of the Greek Super League.
The former Liverpool and Chelsea manager has been out of a job since being dismissed by Celta Vigo in March last year, leaving the club just two points clear of the relegation zone. His move to Athens marks his 17th managerial appointment.
According to reports from Greece, Benitez has agreed to a two-year contract, while Dutch outlet De Telegraaf reports that the deal—worth a record-breaking £3.47 million per year—was finalized following talks in London with club president Giannis Alafouzos.
Panathinaikos currently sit seventh in the 14-team Super League with nine points from six matches, eight points behind leaders PAOK but with a game in hand. The club has not won a league title since 2010 and has lifted the trophy only twice this century.
Benitez has asked to delay the start of his tenure while he relocates to Athens, meaning he will miss Thursday’s Europa League clash against Feyenoord.
Throughout his illustrious career, Benitez has managed top European sides including Liverpool, Inter Milan, Chelsea, Napoli, and Real Madrid. His achievements include:
Two La Liga titles and a UEFA Cup with Valencia
FA Cup and Champions League triumphs with Liverpool
FIFA Club World Cup glory with Inter Milan
A Europa League title during his spell at Chelsea
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