RAFA BENITEZ is reportedly closing in on a return to management and a FIFTEENTH job.
Benitez, 63, has been out of work since January 2022 when he was dismissed by Everton.
Talks with Leicester failed to materialise as Dean Smith headed to the King Power.
But now reports state Benitez looks set to take over at LaLiga outfit Celta Vigo.
The Spanish side are without a manager after Carlos Carvalhal left by mutual consent earlier in June.
And Benitez seems ready to replace him.
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According to Relevo, negotiations have hotted up today and a deal is said to be imminent.
President Carlos Mourino and daughter and new director general Marian Mourino have given the green light to seal the legendary boss’ football comeback.
His status in the game and experience were key factors in Benitez being the No1 target.
Andoni Iraola was on the Celta Vigo shortlist before he secured a deal to replace Gary O’Neil at Bournemouth.
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Benitez has managed some of the biggest clubs in Europe after starting out with Real Madrid’s youth then Castilla sides.
He worked around Spain, winning two LaLigas and the Uefa Cup with Valencia, before joining Liverpool, famously lifting the 2005 Champions League.
Since then, the Spaniard has been in the dugouts at Inter Milan, Chelsea, Napoli, Real Madrid, Newcastle, Dalian Professional and Everton.
His stint at Goodison Park did not go to plan, though, with Benitez sacked five months into the season after ten defeats from his 22 games.
Celta Vigo ended the 2022-23 LaLiga season in 13th – three points above the relegation zone.
But they did finish the campaign with a 2-1 win over champions Barcelona.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
