On June 10th, according to AS, Benítez discussed his future and World Cup prospects in a recent program.
Rafa Benítez was interviewed on Cadena SER, where he spoke about leaving Panathinaikos, and also responded to current hot topics and the football situation.
Experience in Greece
I was the team's fourth coach this season. The club asked us to finish fourth and forget about the Europa League, and we ended up finishing fourth. The team was improving in all aspects. Suddenly, fourth place was not enough. We left satisfied, but also sad.
Patience, contrary to the Premier League
External expectations are higher than reality, so people make hasty decisions. I think coaches on average only last seven months, and no project can sustain such a situation.
My future
When you're not coaching, you're still working. Now Saudi Arabia and the UAE call, but it's time for a proper rest, and then take over a more attractive team, in Europe if possible, or consider a national team. You already need to analyze the market and see what suits you.
Expectations and views on the current Spain team
This is a national team with high expectations, and they play well. Luis de la Fuente has done an excellent job. He's a very normal person. Spain has a great chance to achieve something important. I talked to Capello during the last European Championship, and Spain has changed from tiki-taka to breakthroughs. If you analyze this squad, you'll find so many high-level players, you have to utilize their style of play.
Does it remind you of the 2010 Spain team?
One day I was talking to Fernando Torres, and he told me that Luis changed the team's mentality. Del Bosque continued this, and Luis de la Fuente is also doing smart things now. You have players like Pedri or Iniesta, and they dictate the team's style of play.
Assessment of the current Spain squad
In the Champions League best XI, Raya is the best goalkeeper; Ferran has also done great; Fabián is a European champion. Llorente, Cubarsí... these are all proven players.
Who might be the World Cup dark horse?
I really like Norway and Morocco. We'll have to see how they cope with the heat. The water break rule will help. It will be interesting because they have a lot of travel.
Views on the current crop of Spanish coaches
I remember when I first arrived at Liverpool, not many players and coaches adapted well. We were lucky to bring in Xabi Alonso, Luis García, Fernando Torres... they opened the doors. At that time, I signed for five seasons, and the club told me they hoped to be competitive within three years. Now, Iraola, Guardiola, Emery, Arteta have all established themselves. Spanish grassroots work is good, and our character is also adaptable. We are quite sociable.
Views on Real Madrid and Mourinho
You're asking me? There's a problem in football, which is external expectations, and social media can create anxiety and haste. Time will tell if decisions are correct. Some teams give more time, some less. There's a lot of talk (about Mourinho), I don't have much affinity with him. He has experience and knows what he wants. Time will tell.
How do you view Vinicius' actions in El Clásico?
The importance of the coach is increasing, but they are getting less attention. The coach must manage the team well. The coach must be supported and respected so that he can maintain team discipline.
How do you view the relationship between coaches and age?
Experienced coaches can win championships. Bielsa is 70, Marcelino is 60 or 61. With experience, they can compete for championships.
Will you return to Real Madrid?
The advantage of having been to some places is that you already know them, which gives you an advantage. I have always been open to coaching the teams I have coached. I am always happy to return to the teams I have served. But the blueprint they initially showed you might be completely different when you actually arrive.
How do you view Real Madrid's bid for Julián Álvarez?
This is surprising, everyone was talking about other names before. He is an excellent player. The problem with the transfer market is that the price is not set by you, but by the market. Now they're talking about 150 million, you might think it's expensive. A striker who can consistently deliver might cost 100 to 150 million.