Athens, Greece — Veteran Spanish manager Rafael Benitez has officially been appointed as head coach of Panathinaikos, becoming the 15th club of his illustrious managerial career. The 65-year-old takes over from Christos Kontis, who was dismissed following the club’s 3-1 Europa League defeat to Feyenoord on Thursday.
Panathinaikos, 20-time Greek champions, are currently seventh in the Greek Super League and struggling for consistency both domestically and in Europe. Greek outlets report that Benitez has signed a two-year contract worth approximately €4 million (£3.5 million) per year, underlining the club’s intent to restore its former glory under one of Europe’s most decorated coaches.
⚽ Benitez’s Career Comes Full Circle
The appointment marks another chapter in Benitez’s globe-trotting managerial career, which has spanned nearly four decades and included spells in Spain, England, Italy, and China.
His most recent post was at Celta Vigo, where he was dismissed in March 2024 after less than a year in charge. That role followed his tenure at Everton, where he was sacked in January 2022, making Panathinaikos his third job in under three years.
Benitez began his coaching journey at Real Madrid’s youth academy in 1986 before taking charge of Real Madrid Castilla and later serving as an assistant for the senior team. His early managerial career featured stints at Valladolid, Osasuna, Extremadura, Tenerife, and most notably Valencia, where he claimed two La Liga titles (2001–02, 2003–04) and the UEFA Cup (2004).
🏆 A Legacy of Silverware
One of the most tactically astute managers of his generation, Benitez made his name on the world stage during his time at Liverpool (2004–2010). He guided the club to the unforgettable 2005 UEFA Champions League triumph in Istanbul, where Liverpool came back from 3–0 down to defeat AC Milan on penalties. He also secured the 2006 FA Cup and led the Reds to another Champions League final in 2007.
After leaving Anfield, Benitez added further accolades to his CV, winning the 2013 Europa League as interim boss of Chelsea, and lifting the Coppa Italia with Napoli in 2014. His managerial résumé also includes Inter Milan, Real Madrid, and a successful spell at Newcastle United, where he guided the Magpies back to the Premier League in 2016–17.
🇬🇷 Panathinaikos’ Rebuilding Project
Panathinaikos, one of Greece’s most historic football institutions, are seeking to rebuild after several underwhelming seasons domestically and in Europe. The club’s last Super League title came in 2010, and they have struggled to keep pace with rivals Olympiacos and AEK Athens in recent years.
Benitez’s arrival signals a clear statement of ambition from the club’s hierarchy, who hope his experience at elite European level can reignite Panathinaikos’ competitive edge and stabilize their campaign after consecutive European defeats.
🗣️ What’s Next for Benitez
Benitez is expected to take charge of his first match this weekend as Panathinaikos host Aris Thessaloniki, with fans eager to see how the Spanish tactician will reshape the side. Known for his tactical discipline, defensive organization, and emphasis on structure, Benitez could bring much-needed balance to a team that has leaked goals in recent matches.
Having managed world-renowned clubs like Liverpool, Chelsea, Real Madrid, and Napoli, Benitez now embarks on a fresh challenge in Greek football — a league known for its passion, intensity, and unpredictable nature.
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