Chelsea interim boss, Rafael Benitez has had a roller coaster three months since being appointed by billionaire owner, Roman Abramovich. Over the last week though, results have finally started to go his way.
The stirring 2-2 comeback at Old Trafford as his tactical moves changed the course of their FA Cup quarter-final against Manchester United. The come from behind on aggregate win to knockout Steaua Bucharest in the Europa League and now the 2-0 victory over West Ham United to leap-frog Spurs and move into third place in the Barclay’s Premier League.
Perhaps now, the Chelsea faithful will give the Spaniard a reprieve from the ritual abuse he seemingly suffers every time he steps from the Chelsea dugout at Stamford Bridge.
One can only hope he brings home either the FA Cup or Europa League allowing him to rebuild his reputation. A reputation that has taken a pounding over the course of 32 matches.
It has already been established that he is not returning to West London next season, so the next question is where does he go.
His preferred country would be to remain in England but a man of his reputation and pride would find it tough to move down the Premiership and manage one of the lesser lights. This option could be his salvation though and allow him to get his career back on track without the constant speculation that seemingly surrounds him.
I like Rafa Benitez. He’s a great tactician and his resume up until Inter Milan and now Chelsea was flawless. English football would be foolish to lose him to the continent.