Key Takeaways:
- Rafa Benítez, aged 65, has arrived in Athens to negotiate his appointment at Panathinaikos after departing Celta Vigo in 2024
- The Spaniard is set to sign a two-and-a-half-year contract valued at 15 million euros, according to various sources
- Panathinaikos have a storied European past, having contested the European Cup final in 1971 and reaching the UEFA Champions League semifinals in 1996 and quarterfinals in 2002
Benítez Set for Panathinaikos Role
Rafa Benítez, who previously managed clubs such as Liverpool, Inter, Real Madrid, and Chelsea, is on the brink of making a dramatic return to football management. Multiple reports indicate that Benítez is in advanced discussions to become the next head coach of Panathinaikos, one of Greece’s premier clubs.
📰 Despite Rafael Benitez reportedly being close to becoming head coach at Panathinaikos, the club has officially stated that they maintain their support for Christos Kontis as the current manager ☘️#paofc #SLGR #RafaelBenitez
(@sport24) pic.twitter.com/oswQ1RMKLh
— Hellas Football (@HellasFooty) October 16, 2025
After concluding his tenure at Spanish side Celta Vigo in 2024, the experienced Spanish manager has reportedly flown to Athens aboard a private jet to conduct face-to-face negotiations with Panathinaikos president Giannis Alafouzos. The club’s director, Franco Baldini, is understood to have identified Benítez as his primary candidate for the role.
Contract Details and Financial Terms
According to Sport24, Benítez is expected to put pen to paper on a contract spanning two and a half years. The deal would see him compensated with a total package worth 15 million euros for the duration.
| Manager | Last Club | Year Left | New Club | Contract Length | Total Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rafa Benítez | Celta Vigo | 2024 | Panathinaikos | 2.5 years | 15 million euros |
Panathinaikos’ European Pedigree
The Athens-based club, which Benítez is set to lead, boasts an illustrious history on the continental stage. Panathinaikos were runners-up in the 1971 European Cup final and advanced to the UEFA Champions League semifinals in 1996 and the quarterfinals in 2002. Such heritage underscores the scale of Benítez’s prospective challenge as he aims to restore the club’s status among Europe’s elite.
