Rafa Benitez, the former manager of Liverpool, Chelsea, Newcastle, and Everton, is currently the leading candidate to become the new manager of Sao Paulo. After being sacked by Celta Vigo a month ago, the 64-year-old Spanish tactician has been without a job.
However, according to Arquibancada Tricolor, Benitez is considered the “strongest name” associated with the top managerial position at Sao Paulo. Talks between the two parties began on Sunday and seem to be progressing well, with both sides expressing confidence in a positive outcome.
The negotiations have been facilitated by super agent Giuliano Bertolucci, who represents renowned Brazilian players such as Bruno Guimaraes, Gabriel Magalhaes, and Marquinhos. If Benitez does join the Brazilian giants, he will be reunited with the team that denied him the Club World Cup victory in 2005.
Liverpool faced Sao Paulo in the Yokohama final only seven months after the Miracle of Istanbul. The Reds clinched the European champions title by defeating AC Milan in a thrilling penalty shootout, concluding with a memorable 3-3 draw in the Champions League final.
The Merseysiders aimed to secure the world champions title by challenging the reigning Copa Libertadores champions. Nevertheless, Paulo Autuori’s team emerged victorious in Japan with a 1-0 win, courtesy of Mineiro’s decisive goal.