Rafael Benitez is confident that he will be offered a permanent managers role at a top European club when his stay at Chelsea comes to an end.
The Sun’s Mark Irwin says that the Champions League winner is wanted by French club Monaco. However, he is waiting to see how situations develop at Manchester City, Tottenham and Real Madrid before making any commitments.
Benitez was appointed Chelsea interim manager in November after Roberto Di Matteo was ruthlessly sacked. He has never been accepted by the Stamford Bridge faithful due his rivalry with popular former Blues boss Jose Mourinho and comments he is said to have made during his time in charge of Liverpool.
Monaco are interested in Benitez
Despite the difficult conditions Benitez is working under he looks set to secure Champions League football and could add the Europa League to their ever growing trophy collection.
However, there will be no chance of him being offered the job on a permanent basis but his achievements will remind other clubs of his ability and upcoming availability.
Monaco are owned by Russian billionaire Dmitriy Rybolovlev. He wants to build a side to challenge Paris Saint-Germain in the French league and in Europe. Rybolovlev believes Benitez is the man to replace Claudio Ranieri, another popular former Chelsea boss, and take the club forward.
However, Benitez is reluctant to make an immediate decision as he believes there could a few top European clubs looking for new bosses in the summer.
He wants City or Real top job
Mourinho looks certain to leave Real Madrid, with a return to Chelsea looking a strong possibility.
Benitez would love to take over in the Bernabeu hot seat. However, he will hope Madrid overlook Tottenham boss Andre Villas Boas as there have been rumours that the Spanish giants could make a shock move for the Portuguese manager.
Roberto Mancini’s position could come under threat if Manchester City fail to beat Wigan in the FA Cup final. Benitez is confident that his experience could bring them the Champions League success that they crave.
Monaco looks to be his most likely destination and they are ready to pay him £1m a year to take over next season.
Chelsea shirts
Chelsea merchandise
Manchester City shirts
Manchester City merchandise