Rafael Benitez has stated he is prioritising a return to the Premier League after links with the vacant Tottenham Hotspur role.
Rafael Benitez is Keen on a Return to the Premier League
Benitez Has Made his Intentions Clear as Tottenham Hotspur Seek a New Manager
The former Liverpool and Newcastle United boss had been managing in China since 2019 until leaving Dalian Professional in January. He has been angling for a return to England ahead of the appointment of Jose Mourinho’s replacement at Tottenham.
Daniel Levy is reportedly keen on announcing a new manager before the end of the season. Former candidates such as Julian Nagelsmann and Brendan Rodgers appear to be off the table.
The Spaniard currently lives in Liverpool and watches English football closely. Speaking to Sky Sports he said: “I moved to China because there were no top sides here, so I needed to keep competing and doing my job, but at the moment I’m quite keen to stay in England, in Liverpool.
“I’m watching every Premier League game and sometimes Championship games so that I’m always ready.
“The priority is England, the Premier League, my family is here and I like the style of football here. I will try to be ready here.
“I am watching the Serie A because it is a good league for me but there, in France, in Germany, in Portugal, I don’t see too many options in these countries to have a project where you can develop players and make the team more competitive.”
Levy Has No Perfect Candidate
Reports suggest that Levy is keen on hiring a manager that plays progressive football after criticism of his side’s playing style during Jose Mourinho’s tenure. He is also thought to be seeking an experienced manager.
The North London club has seen several potential candidates fall out of contention for the position in recent weeks. There appear to be no managers available that can meet each demand.
While Benitez is not best known for his progressive style of play, he would bring vast experience to the role. He could play a key part in the decision Harry Kane is set to make about his future this summer.
Without an ideal manager available, Levy may struggle to find a better option than Benitez.
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