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Soccer

"No chance" of Rafa Benitez returning to the Premier League right now

Rafa Benitez has categorically ruled himself out of the running for either of the current manager...



Soccer

"No chance" of Rafa Benitez returning to the Premier League right now

Rafa Benitez has categorically ruled himself out of the running for either of the current managerial vacancies in the Premier League. 

Both Arsenal and Everton are under temporary management following the respective sackings of Unai Emery and Marco Silva.

Benitez's name has been linked with both positions, even if his history with Liverpool would make the Everton move the more unlikely of the two.

The 59-year old Spaniard is currently in charge of Chinese Super League side Dalian Yifang, after he signed a two-and-a-half-year deal in July of 2019.

And speaking on Sky Sports' Monday Night Football, Benitez said there was "no chance" of a return to the Premier League - at least for now.

"Obviously in the future I would like to come back to the Premier League because I like the league", he told Jamie Carragher.

"But at the moment, I must be very clear - so no chance I will come back now because I'm really happy, really pleased, they [Dalian Yifang] trust me."

While the disparity in quality between the Premier League and the Chinese Super League appears a sizeable one, Benitez seems to be enjoying heading up a big long-term project in China, "People will say the league is different - yes it's different, it's another level.

"But Wanda - that is behind Dalian Yifeng the team - is a massive company and they want to change everything.

"They want to create a structure. We are in charge of the kids things there, from 6-years old to the first team.

"We want to leave a legacy, and it's a challenge for me. I am learning a lot. It's a great experience and I'm quite happy at the moment."

Ironically, it's former Arsenal manager Emery that has been most recently linked with the Everton job.

An informal meeting between representatives of the Toffees and the Basque was held in London, but it's believed Emery wants more time to percolate on his next month.

Arsenal could yet again look to Spain for their next manager.

It's reported that former Valencia boss Marcelino has travelled to London for a new job, even if it's not at Arsenal.

Marcelino led Valencia to the Europa League semi-finals last season, but was sacked after just three games of the current La Liga season.

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Read more about

Arsenal Everton Marco Silva Premier League Rafa Benitez Unai Emery