We all knew it was coming but it has now been officially confirmed by Everton. Legendary Liverpool manager, Rafael Benitez is officially Everton's new manager.
It does sting a little bit but most Reds are happy for the Spaniard, he has done so much for Liverpool FC and the City of Liverpool, it would be very hard to dislike the man.
There have been reports for a couple of weeks now that a deal was close and Everton have now confirmed that he has signed a deal at Goodison park until 2024.
The Everton owner, Farhad Moshiri, told EvertonFC.com: “Rafa impressed us greatly with his knowledge and experience but, above all, the passion and hunger he showed to join our Club.
“We are appointing Rafa because we believe he will bring success to our Club and to Evertonians. To put it simply - we need to be competing at the top-end of the league and to be winning trophies.
"Rafa is a proven winner with huge experience in coaching internationally and we have secured the best man to achieve that for us.”
Benitez also had some comments on his new appointment: “I am delighted to be joining Everton.
"Throughout this process I have been greatly impressed by the ambition shown by the senior representatives at the Club and their desire to bring success to this historic Club.
“I believe this is a Club that is going places. I’m determined to play a big part in helping this great Club achieve its ambitions.”
It is very weird seeing Rafa Benitez in Everton colours to say the least. A lot of Everton fans also don't seem impressed with the appointment.
The games next season at Goodison and Anfield are going to be a very strange occurance, especially if it's a full stadium.
Hopefully Rafa is respected by the Everton fans and given the time to show how good of a manager he is. Just don't be trying to outdo your beloved Liverpool Rafa.
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