Former Liverpool manager Benitez named Panathinaikos head coach

The Greek outfit Panathinaikos confirmed on Friday that Rafael Benitez, once Liverpool's manager, has taken up the role of head coach.

This 65 year old Spaniard assumes control at the Athens club, winners of the Greek title on 20 occasions, succeeding Christos Kontis while they occupy seventh position in the league standings.

Benitez parted ways with his previous role at Celta Vigo back in March 2024.

During his tenure, he steered Liverpool to the 2005 Champions League triumph and claimed two La Liga successes with Valencia.

His coaching career also includes stints at Real Madrid, Inter Milan, Napoli, along with Premier League clubs Chelsea, Newcastle and Everton, plus a 18 month period with Dalian Pro in the Chinese Super League.

The club declared, "Panathinaikos is delighted to introduce Rafa Benitez as our new head coach," though no details on the contract term were provided.

Benitez's initial outing in the job comes with Sunday's home league match versus Asteras Aktor.