Rafael Benitez, who is rumoured to be on Tottenham’s shortlist of potential managerial appointments, has admitted his desire to return to the Premier League.
With Spurs falling short in their pursuit of Julian Nagelsmann and with Erik ten Hag signing a contract extension with Ajax, Benitez is said to be one of the options the club are considering to replace Jose Mourinho, along with the likes of Leicester’s Brendan Rodgers and Wolves’ Nuno Espirito Santo.
Some sources have claimed that Daniel Levy wants to appoint a young, up-and-coming coach, who likes to play an attacking brand of football.
While Benitez does not quite fit that profile of manager, the former Liverpool, Chelsea and Newcastle boss has vast experience in European football and boasts an enviable record.
The 61-year-old, who recently parted ways with Chinese Super League club Dalian Professional, has now indicated that he would prefer to manage in England or Italy.
Benitez told Sky Italia: “I like to compete, I like to win. However, at the same time I can work with young people because I am a ‘professor’.
“In Spain, at the moment, it’s not possible to think about carrying out a project and trying to win something.
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“In Italy and England, on the other hand, it can be done. It is still too early to know what will happen in the future but it is clear that Italy and England are places where I have done well.”
Spurs Web Opinion
I can see why Benitez could be a tempting choice if Levy is trying to steady the ship after a couple of poor seasons.
However, if we are to close the gap on the likes of City and compete at the top end of the league again, we are going to need someone to come in and revolutionise the way we play and improve the players we have in the squad.
So, if we cannot bring in someone like Rodgers, I would much rather see Spurs take a punt on Potter, who has the potential to develop into a top coach, rather than going for a safe and pragmatic option like Benitez.
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