Rafael Benitez – Saviour or Villain?

First of all I’d like to announce that I am a Liverpool fan but hopefully I can give a fair opinion. Lets start with the facts. In his first season, Benitez had the responsibility of keeping Steven Gerrard at the club (which was always going to happen). He did however, let the team’s legendary striker Michael Owen leave, much to the dismay of the fans. His most notable signings came in Rafa’s first transfer window by visiting his roots and buying Xabi Alonso and Luis Garcia. Both were immediate successes at Anfield along with the newly reformed Sami Hyypia.

The reason behind the appointment of this Spaniard was to gain an impressive League Position in which he failed to improve on from past manager Gerard Houllier. Although, he had a taste for silverware when in the same season he reached the final of the Carling Cup only to lose to a Portuguese man who later Benitez would seek revenge. Fast forwarding to late May, the manager won the semi-final of the Champions League against Chelsea via a fantastic finish from Luis Garcia. The final (I don’t need to remind you Liverpool fans) was one, if not, the best Champions League final ever. This trophy made Benitez an instant hit in only his first season with the Kopites.

During his second season he won the FA Cup in a dramatic finish thanks to Steven Gerrard’s late goal in normal time which eventually lead to penalties. Many of the fans at the start of the season were hoping Liverpool’s European success would be replicated in the Premiership, and it was as the Red’s finished in an impressive 3rd.

The season was highlighted by the ins and outs of players at the club. Despite Dudek’s brilliant performance in the 3-3 Champions League final win, he was replaced by Pepe Reina. Other players came and particularly right-backs left the team. This is a major factor which is still debated in world football. ‘Does Rafael Benitez waste Liverpool’s money?’ Lets look at the evidence. Jan Kromkamp, Mark Gonzalez, Josemi, Antonio Nunez, Keane (more time needed). His decision making over transfers has been poor as he does spend too much on single players such as Aquilani – who I rate very highly but he should not have cost Liverpool £20 million. Glen Johnson, £18 million – best right-back the club have had for a long time but again not worth that much. Robbie Keane £19 million. His best buys and value for money have been; Torres £24 million – worth every penny. Reina, Kuyt and Benayoun are notable players who have become greats at the club (Benayoun is on the verge).

Also another factor is his decision making on the pitch which I analyse in the coming days. Hopefully this post has explained the reasons behind Benitez being a saviour or a villain among supporters.