Rafa Benitez says he is ready to coach the Italian team: “It would be a new and stimulating challenge”

A few hours before the Champions League final between Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain, former Napoli and Inter coach Rafa Benitez spoke live for Sky Sport from Budapest. He spoke with interest about the performance of Spanish coaches in Europe and delivered his tactical analysis of the upcoming match. “Spanish coaches are doing very good things in Europe. A final between two intense teams like Arsenal and PSG will be interesting to follow, especially if Arsenal manages to change their tactical approach compared to the previous match,” he said.

Regarding his professional future, Benitez said: “I have just finished my experience in Greece. I am now waiting for a new opportunity to continue to progress. » Asked about a possible takeover as coach of the Italy team, he responded enthusiastically: “I am always working to improve my Italian (smile). Taking charge of the Nazionale would be an additional incentive. Would I like this? Yes, absolutely. »

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On the rumor of a possible move by Massimiliano Allegri to Naples, Benitez highlighted the intelligence of Aurelio De Laurentiis: “De Laurentiis is very smart. After the Conte era, it is not easy to find a technician up to the task, and he knows that Allegri has the necessary experience to take on this challenge. »

Finally, about Cristian Chivu, who became coach, Benitez said: “When he was a player under me, he already showed great intelligence. I wouldn't necessarily have imagined him as a coach at the beginning, but with his intelligence and a solid team, he has all the cards in hand to succeed. »

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