Napoli manager Rafa Benitez has fuelled rumours of a possible exit from the Partenopei claiming that he misses his family in Liverpool.
The Spaniard’s contract with the San Paolo outfit expires in the summer and there have been repeated speculations regarding his future at Naples. There were rumours that Napoli were keen to hand the master tactician a two year extension but the recent developments hint otherwise.
Benitez said in a recent interview:
“Experience tells me we have to work on the current project. I often speak with Riccardo Bigon, and I always say to De Laurentiis [club owner] that he must ensure the future of the club regardless of myself. The problem isn’t the renewal, but sharing the same vision, it’s not a question of money or signings.”
Benitez who had a successful reign at Liverpool however insists that he misses his family at Merseyside.
“My family are away from me, my wife and two daughters live in Liverpool. It’s the first time I haven’t had them with me, it’s not easy. De Laurentiis knows how important my family values are to me.”
The 54 year old has also been linked with the Spanish national team job after Vicente Del Bosque gives up his position post Euro 2016. Thus even though he might sign a contract extension with Napoli, there are suggestions that he might have a ‘get-out clause.’
“In the past, when I was asked the question [about the Spain job], and I answered, I was in newspaper headlines like ‘Benitez wants the national team. It might be an idea of course, but I like to work on the pitch on a daily basis.”
As for a return to Liverpool on the cards? Brendan Rodgers’ has been at blame for Liverpool’s failings this season but it would be ‘wishful thinking’ to claim that Benitez will be in charge at the end of the season. However, you never say never in Football. Do uou?
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