Rafael Benitez is winning the Italians over (Part 1)
Prior to the start of the season, Manchester United’s boss was asked about his opinion regarding the change in hot seat at European Champions Inter Milan, and the departure of Jose Mourinho to Real Madrid. Alex Ferguson did not think twice and was abrupt
in his answer, “They favour Madrid, no doubt about that”.
Benitez’s reputation nose-dived during his last season at the Anfield club. With the open animosity that exists between Alex Ferguson and Rafa Benitez, his assessment of his former Liverpool counterpart was somewhat predictable. However, his views matched
the general consensus amongst the worldwide audience that it was Madrid who was getting, by far, the better deal.
Inter are currently 4 points behind surprise leaders Lazio, in second place. Their start to the season has been solid, if unspectacular. They have the best defensive record, with 4 goals conceded in 9 games so far.
The first impressions of Rafa have now started to change after his three months being in charge. His media handling and diplomatic approach to most issues have been warmly welcomed by the all important Italian press, which could hardly stand Jose Mourinho’s
constant jibes.
Benitez, like Mourinho, has won the Champions League. This season, he has made a good start to the Champions League campaign. A 2-2 draw at FC Twente was followed by a 4-0 thrashing of Werder Bremen before his Inter side demolished Spurs in the first half,
in what was the best display by any team in this season's competition thus far. The 4-3 win was far more convincing than the score line suggests.
Rafael Benitez side is less liable to sit back, soak up the pressure and hit the opposition on counter-attack, which was more like how Jose Mourinho’s Inter used to play. Benitez likes his team to keep the ball and control the game. He has learned from his
time in England that how a high tempo start to a game can work wonders for the team’s confidence and of course a result.
His defence plays higher up the pitch, and his team plays more collective football with training ground moves being applied on the pitch. He has stuck to his 4-2-3-1 formation that he used to apply at former club, Liverpool.
His most successful change to Mourinho’s set up has been to put Samuel Eto’o back in his favoured position up front. The response has been there for the whole Europe to see, as Eto’o has struck 15 times in 13 games this season.
Rafael Benitez has also added youth to his side. Both 18 year old Coutinho and 22 year old Jonathon Biabiany have featured regularly in the starting line-up. Wesley Sneijder was the backbone of Mourinho's team. He believed in a team of experienced individuals
who will follow his commandments to the fullest.
But, Rafa is willing to experiment with a bit of youth and is already reaping the rewards as Coutinho, in particular, has received praise from all corners for his direct approach and play making skills. He has given the Inter side a youthful exuberance and
has lifted the burden off Wesley Sneijder to provide that spark.
The burden of expectations on Rafael Benitez’s shoulders is going to stay until the end of the season. Following on from their last season’s success will be no mean task. Well, Benitez knew that when he took over the job but more importantly, he has confidence
in his ability and methods to deliver last year’s unprecedented treble.
This season would be tougher than ever for Inter to retain their Seria A title. Their old foes, AC Milan and Juventus have spent heavily in the summer and have brought in some high profile players. Robinho and former Inter man, Ibrahimovic have moved to
AC Milan, while the star of the season so far, Milos Krasic along with Alberto Aquilani has joined the Old Lady.
In contrast, Inter have let go one of their most talented and controversial strikers, Mario Balotelli to Manchester City. However, Rafael Benitez has shown his desire to spend some cash in the upcoming January transfer window.
(To be continued in Part 2)
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