Former Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez has signed a two-year deal with Greek side Panathinaikos, Softfootball reports.
Panathinaikos lost 3-1 to Feyenoord in the Europa League on Thursday while the club were finalising details in negotiations for Benitez to become their new manager. But he would’ve watched his former side, Liverpool with pride as the Reds hammered Frankfurt 5-1 in the UEFA Champions League.
According to football transfer expert, Fabrizio Romano via his official X account, he revealed that Benitez has signed a two-year deal with the Greek club. He said:
Rafa Benítez signs two-year deal as new Panathinaikos head coach. Agreement sealed today with the Spanish manager.
Panathinaikos also confirmed the news on their official X handle.
Panathinaikos welcomes Rafa Benítez as the club’s new head coach.
This is the start of a new era. ☘️#PAOFC #Panathinaikos pic.twitter.com/hgkRPDGYVH
— Panathinaikos F.C. (@paofc_) October 24, 2025Earlier in the season, Panathinaikos was fined €400,000 for breaching its Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations, following a detailed review of clubs under financial monitoring for the 2024–25 season.
The club have now put their house in order and are focused on getting back to being one of the best sides in Greece. This season they have won just two league matches, drawn three and lost just one after six-round of matches.
Benitez’s first match as head Coach will be at home at Asteras Tripolis F.C. and Panathinaikos fans will hope he begins with a win as they look to improve their position on the table where the club currently sit in seventh with nine points.
