Rafael Benitez appointed Real Madrid coach: 5 things to watch out for

He Likes Control

One of the (many) potential things that may interrupt his ability to succeed at Madrid is his desire for complete control over his teams. Club president Florentino Perez is a man who likes to be in on transfers, managerial decisions, and more, and has shown as much in recent years. However, one of the things that hurt his reign at Liverpool was his direct criticism of owners, stating that he felt as if they did not have his back in the transfer window.

Real Madrid is much different from Liverpool, both in 2007 and in 2015, but if Benitez is to speak as freely about his new bosses as he did then, then it is likely he will not enjoy the repercussions.

Rafael Benitez is a different kind of manager than most. Being unafraid of criticism can have both positives and negatives, and may ultimately help him get through his inaugural season as first team coach at Madrid. However, he would be wary to let things slip, and if last year proves anything it’s that even second place in the league means nothing if it comes without a European and/or cup trophy. Madrid’s supporters have a right to demand as much from their manager and players given their history, and Benitez will surely have to prove right away that he is the man for the job. If managers like Carlo Ancelotti and Jose Mourinho can be shown the door, then the likes of Rafael Benitez will receive the same treatment if he doesn’t win from the gate.