Jamie Carragher shares instant reaction to Rafa Benitez appointment at Everton
Jamie Carragher has shared his instant reaction to the news that Everton have appointed Rafa Benitez as their new manager.
Everton confirmed the Spaniard on Wednesday afternoon, and ex-Liverpool defender Carragher appeared on the All Together Now Podcast [30/06/21] after to discuss the appointment.
‘I can’t help but smile,” he said.
“I can’t believe it’s happened if I’m being totally honest, but it’s one of those where I’m going to sit back and watch it unfold, because I think it’s going to be absolutely fascinating.
“He was streets ahead of everyone on their list.
“It’s a really brave move. I didn’t think it would ever happen, but he ticks, for me, a lot of boxes he needs as an Everton manager.
“But I totally get the reaction from Everton supporters.”
Podcast host Tony Scott then pointed to many doubters among the Blues fanbase who don’t believe Benitez has done much of note in recent years.
“Oh behave,” Carragher replied. “This is the biggest load of nonsense I’ve heard in my life.
“Who are Everton going to get that is at the top of football?”
Blinded by Liverpool loyalty
It’s not baffling to suggest Benitez may be past his sell-by date as a top, elite-level manager in European football.
He was a monumental success at Valencia at the start of the 21st century, delivering two La Liga titles and a UEFA Cup before heading to Liverpool, where he won the Champions League and FA Cup in his first two seasons.
But the silverware dried up for them after that, and he left in acrimonious circumstances in 2010.
He won the Europa League in a short spell with Chelsea, but he has not picked up a major European trophy or league title since that 2013 success.
Benitez flopped at Real Madrid and Inter Milan, got relegated with Newcastle United, and struggled at Chinese Super League side Dalian Professional. He’s not exactly kept up his reputation as a world-class manager over the past decade.
In other Everton news, 29y/o launches stinging attack on Carlo Ancelotti ahead of Blues exit.
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