Rafa Benitez Returns to Management as Panathinaikos' Highest-Paid Coach

Rafa Benitez has been appointed as the new manager of Panathinaikos, marking his 17th managerial position and making him the highest-paid coach in Greek football history. After a 19-month hiatus following his dismissal from Celta Vigo in March 2024, Benitez is set to sign a two-year contract reportedly worth £3.47 million per year. The announcement follows negotiations with Panathinaikos' club president, Giannis Alafouzos, in London.

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Currently, Panathinaikos sits seventh in the Super League Greece, having accumulated nine points from six matches, which places them eight points behind league leaders PAOK, although they have a game in hand. The club has not won a league title since 2010 and has only secured two championships in the 21st century.

Rafa Benitez Will Become League's Highest-Paid Manager of All Time in new Job

Benitez's managerial career spans over two decades, during which he has managed several prominent clubs, including Liverpool, Chelsea, and Napoli. His most notable achievements include winning the UEFA Champions League with Liverpool in 2005 and the Coppa Italia with Napoli in 2014. Despite a successful past, his recent tenure at Celta Vigo ended poorly, with the team finishing just two points above the relegation zone.

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Benitez has expressed his eagerness to return to management, stating, “It is bad for a coach to be seen as retired. People still ask me, 'Do you want to coach?' For sure, I do, particularly in England and Europe.” His appointment at Panathinaikos is seen as a significant opportunity to revitalize the club's fortunes.

Former Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez to take seventeeth role in extremely lucrative move

Some critics have raised concerns about Benitez's recent managerial record, noting that he has not won a major trophy since 2014. His last two roles at Celta Vigo and Everton were marked by underwhelming performances, leading to questions about his ability to lead Panathinaikos back to success.

Rafael Benitez makes European football return with biggest contract in league’s history

Benitez has requested a delay in the start of his tenure to facilitate his move to Athens, meaning he will not be present for Panathinaikos' upcoming Europa League match against Feyenoord. His first match in charge is expected to be a home game against Asteras Tripolis, followed by a cup fixture against Atromitos.

Rafael Benitez makes European football return with biggest contract in league’s history

• “It is bad for a coach to be seen as retired. People still ask me,” — Rafa Benitez

Former Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez to take seventeeth role in extremely lucrative move

Benitez's return to management at Panathinaikos is a pivotal moment for both the coach and the club, as they seek to break a long-standing title drought and restore their status in Greek football.

Daily Mail