Tottenham Hotspur have faced their fair share of challenges with managerial appointments over the years. From Martin Jol to Antonio Conte, Daniel Levy has had to part ways with numerous managers, highlighting the club’s struggles in maintaining stability. Spurs haven’t always succeeded in securing their top targets or finding the ideal replacements, which has only added to their reputation for inconsistency at the helm.
Arne Slot was Tottenham’s top target before Ange Postecoglou took charge, and Erik ten Hag was nearly appointed before the club opted for Nuno Espirito Santo.
In the on the latest addition of It Was What it Was, Rafa Benitez revealed an Interesting twist in his managerial journey, sharing that he was in talks with Spurs for the managerial role before ultimately becoming Liverpool’s manager.
The former Madrid manager was headed for Tottenham
Rafael Benítez revealed he came close to managing Tottenham Hotspur during the mid-2000s. At the time, he was one of the most sought-after managers, having enjoyed great success with Valencia.
Faced with offers from Besiktas, Inter Milan, and Spurs, Benítez ultimately chose to take charge at Liverpool, where he cemented his legacy. Renowned as one of the modern era’s finest managers, he led top clubs like Real Madrid, Inter Milan, and Chelsea, winning both the Europa League and Champions League.
Benitez speaking to It Was What it Was, revealed
“It’s not important at this time. It’s not important.”
“We are talking about a long time ago, but there was Besiktas, Inter, Tottenham and Liverpool. But when I say offers, interest, and then they were talking with my agent and that’s it. But the most serious for me and the most exciting was Liverpool.”
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Benitez’s style of tough love might have clashed with some players at Liverpool, but it undeniably brought out the best in others, cementing his legendary status at Anfield with his 2000s achievements. One can only imagine how different the Premier League might look today had the Spaniard chosen to lead Tottenham instead.
