(DDM) – Spanish veteran manager Rafa Benítez has officially been named the new head coach of Panathinaikos FC, marking his long-awaited return to management almost two years after parting ways with Spanish La Liga side Celta Vigo.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano confirmed the news on Friday, reporting that “Rafa Benítez signs in as new Panathinaikos head coach, agreement sealed today with the Spanish manager.”
According to multiple reports from Greek and international sports outlets, the 65-year-old Spaniard has agreed to a two-and-a-half-year deal, described as one of the most lucrative managerial contracts in Greek football history.
The appointment marks Benítez’s 17th managerial job and his first since he left Celta Vigo in 2024 after a challenging spell in Spain’s top division.
Panathinaikos, one of Greece’s most successful clubs, currently sits seventh in the 14-team Super League Greece, with nine points from six matches, eight points behind leaders PAOK, though they still have a game in hand.
The club’s board believes that Benítez’s vast experience and tactical expertise will help revitalize the team and steer them back into contention for the Greek championship title.
Benítez’s appointment has sparked excitement among Panathinaikos supporters, who see the arrival of such a high-profile coach as a statement of intent from the club’s management.
Over the course of his illustrious career, Benítez has managed some of Europe’s top clubs, including Liverpool, Real Madrid, Valencia, Inter Milan, Napoli, and Newcastle United.
He remains widely celebrated for leading Liverpool to their unforgettable 2005 UEFA Champions League triumph, where the Reds staged one of football’s greatest comebacks, overturning a 3-0 halftime deficit to beat AC Milan on penalties in Istanbul.
Benítez also won two La Liga titles and a UEFA Cup with Valencia, cementing his reputation as one of Spain’s most accomplished tactical minds.
Panathinaikos officials have expressed confidence that his discipline, structure, and European experience will elevate the club’s competitiveness both domestically and in continental competitions.
Club sources told DDM that Benítez is expected to be unveiled officially this weekend, with his first training session scheduled early next week at the club’s facility in Athens.
Analysts say his appointment could also attract new sponsorship opportunities and player signings, given his global recognition and success across multiple leagues.
For Benítez, this new chapter in Greece represents both a fresh challenge and a chance to rebuild his managerial reputation after mixed spells in Spain and England.
As Panathinaikos prepares for their next league fixture, all eyes will be on whether Benítez’s arrival can ignite a title resurgence and restore the club’s dominance in Greek football.