Liverpool FC confirm Rafael Benitez departure
Rafael Benitez has parted company with Liverpool after six years at the club.
The Reds confirmed the news – which had been widely expected following a day of feverish speculation – in a brief statement on their website this afternoon, which confirmed that the departure had been by “mutual consent.” It read:
“Mr. Benitez relinquishes his position as team manager after six years and the Board of Directors would like to place on record their grateful thanks for his services and wish him all the best in his future career.
“The Board has now asked Managing Director Christian Purslow, with the assistance of Club Ambassador Kenny Dalglish, to begin a formal search to identify and assess potential candidates for the managerial position.
“No timescale has been placed on the process and Liverpool FC will make no further statement until a new manager is appointed.”
Benitez won the Champions League with Liverpool in Istanbul in 2005 and the FA Cup a year later, but the Spaniard failed to build upon that by winning the coveted Premier League title, although he did come close by finishing second in 2008/09.
His frequent battles with Liverpool’s American owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett, both hated by the fans due to the huge amount of debt they’ve placed upon the club, always hinted that a bitter parting of the ways was inevitable, but many expected the boss to survive when it was announced that the Americans had put the Reds up for sale in April.
However, a disastrous campaign last season resulted in a seventh placed finish, a performance that, according to new chairman Martin Broughton, was the main reason behind his exit.
“Rafa will forever be part of Liverpool folklore after bringing home the Champions League following the epic final in Istanbul,” he said, “but after a disappointing season both parties felt a fresh start would be best for all concerned.'”
The Spaniard was held in high regard by the club’s supporters, who never forgot his “Miracle of Istanbul.”
“It is very sad for me to announce that I will no longer be manager of Liverpool FC,” he said.
“I would like to thank all of the staff and players for their efforts. I'll always keep in my heart the good times I've had here, the strong and loyal support of the fans in the tough times and the love from Liverpool. I have no words to thank you enough for all these years and I am very proud to say that I was your manager.
“Thank you so much once more and always remember: You'll never walk alone.”
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