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Rafa Benítez Becomes Highest-Paid Manager in Greek Football

10/24/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Rafa Benítez is Panathinaikos' new manager, becoming the highest-paid manager in Greek football history with a £3.47 million-per-year contract.
This marks his 17th managerial role after 19 months out of work since his Celta Vigo dismissal.
Panathinaikos sits seventh in the Super League Greece, eight points behind PAOK.
Benítez delays his start to move to Athens and will miss the Europa League match against Feyenoord.

History

Historical Context

In 2003, José Mourinho became the first football manager to earn over £1 million annually, setting a precedent for managerial salaries. Following a 19-month hiatus, Rafa Benítez signed a £3.47 million contract with Panathinaikos in 2025, highlighting the escalating financial stakes in football. This trend reflects the pressures clubs face to achieve immediate success in competitive leagues like Super League Greece.

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Story summary

Rafa Benítez is Panathinaikos' new manager, becoming the highest-paid manager in Greek football history with a £3.47 million-per-year contract.
This marks his 17th managerial role after 19 months out of work since his Celta Vigo dismissal.
Panathinaikos sits seventh in the Super League Greece, eight points behind PAOK.
Benítez delays his start to move to Athens and will miss the Europa League match against Feyenoord.

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