RismadarVoice Reporters
November 5, 2026
Former Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has expressed his desire to return to the English Premier League, revealing that he remains interested in taking charge of a club despite currently working with UEFA.
The 66-year-old Spanish coach, who has previously managed Liverpool, Chelsea, Newcastle United and Everton, said he continues to monitor Premier League matches closely while waiting for a suitable managerial opportunity.
Speaking on talkSPORT Drive on Tuesday, Benitez explained that his current role with UEFA’s Technical Observer Group allows him to study matches, assess tactical developments and remain connected to the game.
He said the Premier League remained particularly attractive because of its competitive intensity and demanding playing style.
Benitez explained that he regularly watches matches across Europe’s leading leagues to understand players, tactical approaches and changes in modern football.
He cited recent encounters involving Juventus, Napoli, Liverpool and Arsenal as examples of the different playing styles he continues to analyse.
According to the former Liverpool manager, every match in the Premier League presents significant challenges, making the competition appealing to experienced coaches.
However, he stressed that returning to management would depend on finding a club with the right sporting project.
Asked directly whether he would welcome another opportunity in England’s top flight, Benitez confirmed that he would be interested.
The Spaniard has been without a managerial appointment since leaving Greek club Panathinaikos in May 2026, seven months into a two-and-a-half-year contract.
His last managerial position in England was at Everton, where he was dismissed in January 2022 after approximately six months in charge.
Benitez previously enjoyed considerable success in English football, winning the UEFA Champions League and FA Cup with Liverpool, the Europa League with Chelsea and the Championship title with Newcastle United.
His comments come amid growing scrutiny of several Premier League managers following disappointing results this season.
Manchester United’s Michael Carrick, Sunderland’s Regis Le Bris, Crystal Palace’s Pierre Sage and Nottingham Forest’s Oliver Glasner have all faced questions about their respective teams’ performances.
Nevertheless, Benitez did not identify any club he was negotiating with or suggest that an appointment was imminent.
He also indicated that he remains open to opportunities in other European leagues, including Italy’s Serie A and Spain’s La Liga.
For now, the experienced manager continues his UEFA responsibilities while monitoring potential opportunities to return to the dugout.
