Rafael Benitez confirmed as Real Madrid manager on three-year contract

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Former Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez has been appointed as the new manager of Real Madrid. The Spaniard – who had been crudely linked with a return to Anfield (via the Daily Star) – replaces Carlo Ancelotti on a three-year contract.

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Sky Sports confirms…

The 55-year-old began his managerial career with Real Madrid’s reserve side back in 1993. He enjoyed spells with a number of Spanish sides before coming to prominence with Valencia, with whom he won two La Liga titles and the UEFA Cup.

He joined Liverpool in 2004 and guided us to our famous Champions League triumph the following year, masterminding our comeback from three goals down to beat Ancelotti’s AC Milan in the final.

Our European success was followed by an FA Cup win the following year, while he also picked up the UEFA Super Cup and the Community Shield.

He remained with the Reds until 2010. He joined Inter Milan that same year but only lasted a short time in his post before he was once again dismissed. He moved to Chelsea on a short-term contract in 2012 and helped them win the Europa League, before joining Napoli for a further two-year stint in Serie A.

Next season, he’ll face the challenging task of guiding Madrid to another successful season. Ancelotti was dismissed despite guiding Real to the Champions League last season and Benitez will know only too well that he can’t afford to fall short of expectations.

I’m sure the vast majority of Liverpool fans will join me in wishing him all the best in his new position.

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