Rafa Benítez finds a new bench

The Madrid coach has secured a very lucrative contract in his new stage far away from Spain

Héctor Andreu | 17 Oct 2025 | 16.55
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Rafa Benítez signs with Panathinaikos / La Razón
Rafa Benítez signs with Panathinaikos / La Razón

UEFA Europa League
1 X 2
Feyenoord Panathinaikos
23/10/25 18:45:00
1.65 4.00 4.75

The figure of Rafa Benítez reappears strongly on the European scene. According to various Greek media reports, the Spanish coach is on the verge of signing a contract with Panathinaikos until 2027, with the option of extending it for another year and a total salary for him and his coaching staff around 4 million euros.

Benítez's Plan in Greece: Figures and Support

The project offered by Panathinaikos aims high. As reported by 'Gazzetta', the salary, which encompasses his entire technical team, represents one of the biggest recent investments in the Greek Super League. The contract would cover until 2027, with the possibility of extending it to 2028 based on sporting performance.

Behind this operation is Franco Baldini, a key advisor to the Athenian board. The Italian has been the main advocate for the arrival of the Madrid-born coach, presenting an ambitious sports reconstruction project with a clear European projection.

In recent weeks, there has also been speculation about an even longer agreement with better economic conditions, demonstrating the great interest of the Hellenic club in securing the services of an experienced and internationally renowned coach.

Challenges and Promises of the Benítez Era

Taking charge at Panathinaikos will not be an easy task. The historic Greek club is going through a shaky start to the season and aims to regain ground against direct rivals such as Olympiacos or AEK Athens. Benítez's mission will be clear: restore competitiveness and position the team back in the title race.

The Spanish coach arrives with an impressive resume. Champions League winner with Liverpool, and with coaching experiences at Real Madrid, Chelsea, Inter Milan, and Valencia, Benítez brings knowledge, tactical discipline, and a winning mentality that could be crucial for Panathinaikos' immediate future.

A curious detail: years ago, a Panathinaikos team led by another coach defeated a Benítez-led side in a friendly match in Toronto. That anecdote, which now seems trivial, adds a historical touch to his imminent link with the Athenian club.

Benítez, new Panathinaikos coach

A High-Risk Challenge

The arrival of the Spanish coach in Greece represents both a risk and an opportunity. Benítez comes from a challenging period at Celta de Vigo, where he did not achieve the expected results, but his experience and ability to manage complex dressing rooms make him a coherent choice for a club looking to restructure from the ground up.

Furthermore, Panathinaikos is seeking a show of strength to enhance its international image and attract top-level players and sponsors. In this regard, Benítez's figure could be decisive, both in sporting terms and media impact.

Although the agreement has not yet been officially announced, negotiations are well advanced. Sources close to the club assure that only contractual details remain to be finalized, and the announcement could be made in the coming days.

For the Athenian fans, expectations are high. The arrival of an internationally renowned coach has generated excitement and optimism around the team, which hopes to embark on a new period of stability and growth.

In conclusion, Rafa Benítez could be the key piece in the green revival in Greece. His experience, methodology, and ambition fit well with a Panathinaikos determined to reclaim lost prominence and inscribe its name among the continent's elite.

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