How would Everton FC benefit from Rafael Benitez’s presence?


How would Everton FC benefit from Rafael Benitez’s presence?

Rafael Benitez

Rafael Benitez is all set to start his new venture as Everton FC manager when the Premier League starts next month. The Spaniard was appointed in place of Carlo Ancelotti who rejoined Real Madrid CF last month. Although the appointment came as a big surprise, the club has managed to find an able replacement. The 61-year-old could prove to be a valuable signing. Benitez has time and again given proof of his authoritarian man management and is highly skilled in picking the right combinations. Benitez could be the right choice to change the fortunes of the Toffees.

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His creative vision and intelligent organization could pave the way for a bright future for the club. Benitez faced his first big challenge in the Premier League when he was appointed as Liverpool FC manager in 2004. It was a big challenge initially as the Reds finished 5th in the Premier League table but it was the 2005 Champions League final that made him a legend. The Reds won against some of the big guns like Chelsea FC and Juventus FC on their way to the final. The Anfield side was down 0-3 in the final against AC Milan then made a strong comeback netting 3 goals in quick succession to make it 3-3. Liverpool won the title on penalties. It was one of the best Champions League final ever witnessed.

Benitez also won the FA Cup and the Community Shield in the next season. Benitez had to leave Anfield after a frosty relationship with the club’s new owners. He joined Inter Milan later only to leave after two seasons. Benitez then joined Chelsea FC in 2012. Although he didn’t get the respect at Stamford Bridge but managed to win the Europa League title with the Blues. In 2015 he joined Newcastle United FC as the owners thought that the Spaniard was the right man to save them from relegation as the situation was too problematic. Benitez managed to keep the hopes alive and suddenly Newcastle United looked like a cohesive outfit under Benitez at times even challenging the big guns of the Premier League. After the 2018-19 season Benitez decided not to renew the contract with the club.

How would the Toffees benefit from Rafael Benitez’s system?

Rafael Benitez

Benitez’s game plan revolves around tactical organization and creative smartness which is why he normally uses a 4-2-3-1 formation. He mostly uses a combination that is a mix of offensive and defensive play. His midfield set-up normally focuses on breaking the opposition’s defensive set-up with creativity combined with an attacking prowess so Benitez has always emphasized on including a midfielder who is a combination of attacking flair and creative smartness.

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Midfielder James Rodriguez would be a vital cog in the midfield if he stays at the club alongside former Leicester City winger and new addition Demarai Gray. Striker Calvery Lewin’s presence would be crucial at the front along with Richarlison. Youngster Tom Davies would be vital to add pace in the midfielder with his electric runs and creative organization alongside Andros Townsend. Benitez would prefer Lucas Digne and Seamus Coleman at the back against sides whose forward line is tactically intense during counter attacking play.

Benitez can work wonders if provided with suitable resources and backup but needs to be given time to understand every player’s game which would give him a clear idea to sharpen them tactically and technically. However, it’s too early to predict whether Benitez would bring cheers at Goodison Park but the Toffees have surely got a reliable mentor who is capable of taking the club in the right direction.

Also Read: Arsenal keen to sign Leicester City midfielder James Maddison