Gareth Southgate's contract as England coach is set to expire next December, and former Liverpool, Newcastle and Chelsea coach Rafa Benitez is interested in succeeding him.
Rafa Benitez is boldly throwing his hat into the ring to replace Gareth Southgate as England coach.
The 63-year-old former Liverpool, Newcastle and Chelsea boss claims he has a “very good relationship” with some members of Southgate's coaching staff, and would eventually like to move into international management. Benitez, who is currently coaching struggling Celta Vigo in the Spanish League, outlined his ambitions ahead of what will be Southgate's final tournament as Three Lions coach, Euro 2024.
His contract expires next December, and the English Football Association is currently studying his options. In an interview with The athleteBenitez has promoted himself for the England job, although his stock has declined steadily in recent years.
When asked if he would be interested in managing the Three Lions or his country Spain, the Champions League-winning coach replied: “That's always a serious question because there's a manager who does the job well. I even have friends in Southgate.” Our working team has a very good relationship.
“But, thinking about the future, I would like to have a national team that can compete for titles. I suffer a lot of defeats. When you are in a team that does not lose often, you get used to competing for wins.” “So I would like to have a national team that can achieve things, but again, it's all in the future.”
Regarding his immediate ambitions, Benitez said: “First, to do a good job here so that Celta can grow and achieve stability, and not suffer every year. With structure and organization, you can achieve a comfortable position in the table, and then start getting closer.” European places.
“That would be the goal. Then, for the future, maybe international training, a chance to participate in a World Cup or European Championship.”
Your turn! Who should replace Gareth Southgate? Give us your pick in the comments section.
Southgate has remained silent about his future, with England's performance in the European Championship likely to be a deciding factor. Speaking during the UEFA Nations League draw, the 53-year-old admitted: “You have to see how the summer goes – it's that simple.
“I know what we can achieve. I know what my criteria for success is and after that I don't really think about anything else. My only focus is trying to win the tournament for England.
“We have to perform and you have to make the best decisions for everyone. I will not be in a position to make that decision before the tournament. If we do anything before, it will be detrimental to the performance.” “Any way your decision went.”
Join the new WhatsApp community And get your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also offer our community members special offers, promotions, and advertising from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check it out anytime you want. If you are curious, you can read our website Privacy Notice.
“Coffee trailblazer. Passionate thinker. Creator. Hipster-friendly internet enthusiast.”
More Stories
England vs Sweden: BBC Sport Readers' Lionesses in Euro 2025 qualifiers at Wembley Stadium
England Six Nations squad: Captain Jimmy George, Billy Vunipola and Kyle Sinckler have been dropped
Six Nations 2024: Ethan Roots and Fraser Dingwall will make their England debut against Italy