Europa League success proves nothing: Benitez
Chelsea manager pleased with players’ commitment after win over Benfica.
“You do your job in six months and it changes nothing if you win or lose the final, in terms of what you’re trying to do," says Benitez. PHOTO: AFP
AMSTERDAM:
Rafael Benitez claims he did not need to win the Europa League to prove that he has done a good job during his turbulent six-month spell as interim manager of Chelsea.
The London club stunned Benfica with a stoppage-time goal from Branislav Ivanovic in the final to record a 2-1 win that gave them a second consecutive European title after last season’s Champions League triumph.
However, the Spaniard, who has had to contend with outright opposition from sections of the Chelsea support, said the result had not turned him into a successful manager.
“I think it’s sad to say this but my situation won’t change,” said Benitez, who has now won three continental titles. “You do your job in six months and it changes nothing if you win or lose the final, in terms of what you’re trying to do.
“With a team in transition, it was really difficult. But we are still winning and you saw the commitment of the players on the pitch.”
Published in The Express Tribune, May 17th, 2013.
Rafael Benitez claims he did not need to win the Europa League to prove that he has done a good job during his turbulent six-month spell as interim manager of Chelsea.
The London club stunned Benfica with a stoppage-time goal from Branislav Ivanovic in the final to record a 2-1 win that gave them a second consecutive European title after last season’s Champions League triumph.
However, the Spaniard, who has had to contend with outright opposition from sections of the Chelsea support, said the result had not turned him into a successful manager.
“I think it’s sad to say this but my situation won’t change,” said Benitez, who has now won three continental titles. “You do your job in six months and it changes nothing if you win or lose the final, in terms of what you’re trying to do.
“With a team in transition, it was really difficult. But we are still winning and you saw the commitment of the players on the pitch.”
Published in The Express Tribune, May 17th, 2013.