Benitez never felt Digne was worth his £130k-a-week Everton salary
Rafa Benitez never felt French left-back Lucas Digne was worth his £130,000-a-week salary at Everton, according to The Telegraph.
The Spaniard and the former Barcelona man fell out, with the latter eventually moving to Aston Villa a couple of days ago.
The Toffees have also parted ways with Benitez following Saturday’s 2-1 loss at Norwich City, with the club now looking for their sixth manager in six years.
Benitez’s arguments about Digne’s wages were drowned out, especially as he was not empowered by results or performances.
Unbelievable
The Villa left-back signed a new four-year deal with Everton in February 2021 as a reward for his fine form after he joined from Barcelona.
In his debut season on Merseyside, the France international’s total of 52 chances created was higher than any other defender in Europe’s top-five leagues, and he emerged as Everton’s players’ player of the season.
He had contributed to 24 goals in 97 appearances for the club as at the time he penned an improved contract, and it is laughable to hear that Benitez felt he did not deserve the deal.
Digne could only be involved in one goal this season for the Toffees due to the pragmatic style of play of the Spaniard.
It limited his attacking qualities, and he moved to where his skillset will be more appreciated.
Things would have been different had the left-back remained at the club for a few more days.
He is reportedly earning around £150,000-a-week at Villa Park, and Steven Gerrard approved the deal because he fully deserves it.
In other Everton news, the Toffees are plotting January loan-to-buy bid for centre-mid hailed by Jack Grealish last month.
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