Rafa Benítez poised to take over at Celta Vigo

Following the departure of Portuguese coach Carlos Carvahal two weeks ago, it looks like Celta Vigo are poised to confirm their coach for the 2023-24 season with Rafa Benítez set to make a LaLiga return. The 63-year-old has had spells managing Valencia and Real Madrid and according to reports, negotiations are very advanced with some minor details set to be resolved.

Celta president Carlos Mouriño announced yesterday that he was in no hurry to resolve the issue of the new coach and hinted that the next Celta manage would be a well established manager. The Celta president added that: “this week we should finalize the signing of that coach, but I wouldn’t mind waiting two days if the one we want comes.” The club have committed to the coach from Parla and Benitez’s confirmation is expected to be announced later in the week.

Benítez is reportedly willing to cut his salary considerably and is anxious to return to coaching since his last spell at Premier League side Everton in the 2021-22 season. His time on Merseyside was short lived following a string of poor results leaving the ‘Toffees’ hovering above the relegation zone. As a manager Benitez has won a Champions League with Liverpool, two Leagues and a Uefa Cup with Valencia, a Europa League with Chelsea, a Club World Cup with Inter and a Coppa Italia with Napoli.