RAFA BENITEZ turned down mega money and more than 20 clubs to be closer to home at Celta Vigo.
Spaniard Benitez was unveiled as the LaLiga side’s new boss in the summer.
AFPRafa Benitez took charge of Celta Vigo back in the summer[/caption]
AFPIt was Benitez’s first job in home country Spain since he coached Real Madrid in 2016[/caption]
Although he’s had a tough start to life with the Galicians, who sit third from bottom after nine games.
However, the former Everton, Liverpool, Newcastle, Chelsea and Real Madrid manager revealed when he took the job: “I had more than 20 offers for much more money — but coming to Celta is a source of pride.
“I wanted to be in a top league, closer to my family and a project that allows me to grow. This offer was the most attractive.”
The ex-Inter Milan and Napoli chief, 63, has one of the most impressive hauls of silverware for any modern-day boss.
He’s racked up triumphs in the Champions League, LaLiga twice, the Europa League, UEFA Cup, Club World Cup, FA Cup and Coppa Italia.
The former Valencia manager previously bossed in his home country with Real in 2015-16.
But he was axed halfway through that campaign when Los Blancos dropped to third in LaLiga, amid claims he was unpopular with fans and some players.
Benitez last won a trophy when Newcastle lifted the Championship crown in 2017.
He then oversaw China’s Dalian Pro from July 2019 to January 2021.
Next came his last job until now, seven months at Everton that began with a winning streak but ended in a dire run and the axe in January 2022.
Celta were quick to boast of his pedigree when they appointed him back in June.
When announcing his arrival, they posted: “Rafa Benitez is one of the most successful coaches in the history of our country and has coached world-class teams in the main European leagues.
“(In) our Centenary season, an unforgettable event for Celta’s fans, (we will have) a formidable leader on the bench.”
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