Former Liverpool Boss Rafa Benítez Appointed Panathinaikos Manager on Record Deal

Former Liverpool manager Rafa Benítez has been appointed as the new head coach of Panathinaikos, in what Greek media have described as the highest managerial salary ever offered in the country.

The Athens-based side, currently sitting seventh in the 14-team Greek Super League, confirmed the Spaniard’s appointment on Friday. Benítez has signed a contract reportedly running until 2027, with local reports suggesting the deal is worth close to €4 million (£3.4 million) per season, including an option to extend for a further year.

The 65-year-old, renowned for his managerial experience across Europe, has previously coached top clubs including Real Madrid, Inter Milan, Napoli, Chelsea, and Newcastle United. His most recent role was with Celta Vigo, where he was dismissed in March 2024 after managing just five league victories.

Benítez was also sacked by Everton in early 2022 after a 200-day spell, struggling to win over fans due to his long and successful association with their fierce rivals Liverpool.

During his tenure at Anfield, Benítez famously guided Liverpool to their memorable 2005 Champions League triumph — dubbed the “Miracle of Istanbul” — as well as reaching the 2007 final and lifting the FA Cup in 2006. He later served as Chelsea’s interim manager, leading the London club to Europa League glory in 2013, before claiming the Italian Cup with Napoli in 2014.

Benítez’s time at Real Madrid ended in January 2016 after just seven months in charge.

Panathinaikos, who dismissed Rui Vitória last month, have been under the temporary guidance of Christos Kontis. The team suffered a 3–1 defeat to Feyenoord in the Europa League on Thursday and will look to bounce back under their new boss.

Benítez’s first match in charge will take place on Sunday when Panathinaikos host bottom-placed Asteras Tripolis in the Greek Super League.