Napoli Coach Rafael Benitez has fuelled rumours of an exit in the summer, admitting he misses his family, who are in Liverpool.
The tactician’s contract expires in the summer, and the Spaniard’s contract situation has been the source of constant speculation.
Napoli Coach Rafael Benitez has fuelled rumours of an exit in the summer, admitting he misses his family, who are in Liverpool.
The tactician’s contract expires in the summer, and the Spaniard’s contract situation has been the source of constant speculation.
Recent reports had put the former Chelsea Coach closer to a renewal at San Paolo, but in an interview with today’s edition of the Gazzetta dello Sport Benitez was coy on the issue.
“Experience tells me we have to work on the current project,” Benitez explained.
“I often speak with Riccardo Bigon, and I always say to De Laurentiis that he must ensure the future of the club regardless of myself.
“The problem isn’t the renewal, but sharing the same vision, it’s not a question of money or signings.
“We need to work to see if we can win together going forward or not, and then we’ll see.
“My family are away from me, my wife and two daughters live in Liverpool. It’s the first time I haven’t had them with me, it’s not easy.
“De Laurentiis knows how important my family values are to me.”
Some have suggested that Benitez could sign a new deal with Napoli, but would insist on a get-out clause should the Spanish national team job become available, but Benitez dismisses such speculation.
“In the past, when I was asked the question [about the Spain job], and I answered, I was in newspaper headlines like ‘Benitez wants the national team’.
“It might be an idea of course, but I like to work on the pitch on a daily basis.
“I’m a teacher, my approach is to teach.
“I work on a player’s mind so that they understand football, not just on a piece of paper.
“The international call-ups for [Jose] Callejon and [Kalidou] Koulibaly are a reward for them and for my work.”