Former Liverpool manager lands shock appointment at European club

A familiar face from Liverpool’s recent history is making a comeback to management — this time in Greece.

As reported by The Athletic, former Reds manager Rafa Benitez has been officially unveiled as the new head coach of Panathinaikos. The Spaniard, who famously guided Liverpool to their unforgettable Champions League triumph in Istanbul in 2005, returns to the sidelines just seven months after his last job ended on a disappointing note.

Benitez takes over from Rui Vitoria, who was dismissed in September, with Panathinaikos currently struggling in seventh place in the Greek Super League and underperforming in Europe. The Athens side have picked up nine points from their first six league matches and only three from their opening three Europa League outings.

This appointment adds another chapter to Benitez’s illustrious managerial career, which includes lifting the Champions League and FA Cup with Liverpool and managing European heavyweights such as Real Madrid, Napoli, and Inter Milan.

His most recent spell with Celta Vigo ended poorly, as he was dismissed following a 4–0 defeat to Real Madrid that left the club hovering just above the relegation zone.

Despite his achievements, Benitez’s time at Liverpool remains a topic of debate. Admired for his tactical acumen, he was also criticized for a perceived lack of warmth. On The Football Historian Podcast, former players Lee Peltier and David Raven described him as “quiet and distant,” with Raven recalling being told to “just sign it and shut up” during contract talks. Both suggested that language barriers might have contributed to his detached demeanor.

Still, Benitez’s track record speaks volumes. Having managed some of Europe’s most prestigious clubs, he now faces the task of revitalizing Panathinaikos and restoring their former glory.

Though Liverpool supporters will forever associate him with the miracle of Istanbul, Benitez’s career since leaving Anfield has taken many unexpected turns — including a controversial stint with city rivals Everton.

If he can rediscover even a fraction of his old magic, Athens could soon be the stage for another Benitez-led revival.