Rafa Benitez Nearing Panathinaikos Exit After Troubled Four-Month Spell
Rafa Benitez is reportedly on the verge of being sacked as manager of Panathinaikos, following a disastrous first few months in charge at the Greek Super League club. The 65-year-old former Liverpool boss was appointed in October on a highly lucrative two-and-a-half-year contract, valued at approximately £3.5 million per year, which made him the highest-paid head coach in the history of Greek football.
Poor Results and Widening Gap to Top Teams
Since taking over, Benitez has managed just 13 wins from his initial 25 matches across all competitions, suffering six defeats in the process. Panathinaikos, historically second only to Olympiacos in domestic league titles, currently occupy fifth place in the top flight. Although the team was in seventh position when Benitez assumed control, the gap to the top two spots and the coveted Champions League qualification places has actually widened during his tenure.
It is noteworthy that Panathinaikos have not finished below fifth place since the 2018-19 season, when they ended the campaign in eighth position, highlighting the club's recent standards and expectations.
Squad Discontent and Tactical Complaints
According to reports, some members of the Panathinaikos squad have grown increasingly frustrated with Benitez's managerial methods. Specific complaints have emerged regarding a perceived lack of detailed tactical analysis in match preparation, suggesting internal discord that may be contributing to the team's underwhelming performances.
Final Ultimatum and Potential Replacement
Recent claims suggest that Benitez has been given just two matches to save his job, with crucial upcoming fixtures against Viktoria Plzen in the Europa League and OFI Crete in the domestic league. Should the Athens-based club decide to part ways with the Spaniard, a replacement is allegedly already being lined up.
Greek outlet Sport24 reports that contact has been initiated with former Panathinaikos player Igor Biscan. The 47-year-old Croatian most recently managed Qatari side Al-Ahli, departing in November. Biscan is familiar with Benitez, having played under him at Liverpool and being part of the squad that famously came from 3-0 down to defeat AC Milan in the 2005 Champions League Final, although he was an unused substitute in that iconic match.
Financial Implications and Benitez's Career Trajectory
If dismissed, Benitez could reportedly be entitled to compensation of around £4.4 million, a significant sum reflecting his substantial contract. The Panathinaikos role marks the 15th managerial position of Benitez's storied career. His previous post was at Spanish club Celta Vigo, where he was sacked in March 2024 after less than nine months in charge.
That appointment was his first since being dismissed by Premier League side Everton in January 2022. Throughout his career, Benitez has achieved notable successes, including winning the 2005 Champions League and 2006 FA Cup with Liverpool, the 2013 Europa League during an interim spell at Chelsea, and guiding Newcastle United to promotion from the Championship in the 2016-17 season. He has also managed top clubs such as Valencia, where he secured two La Liga titles and the Europa League, Inter Milan, Napoli, and Real Madrid.
The current situation at Panathinaikos represents a significant challenge for the experienced manager, with his future hanging in the balance as pressure mounts both on and off the pitch.
