Rafa Benitez a shock contender for new job with South American giants

Rafa Benitez is among the names being considered to take charge of South American side Botafogo, talkSPORT understands.

The Brazilian giants are in the late stages of deciding on a new head coach, with Benitez one of three managers under consideration.

As well as Benitez, Botafogo are considering Portuguese boss Vasco Matos and former Barcelona boss Gerardo Martino.

If appointed, Benitez could lead Botafogo as they embark on a fresh chapter in their storied football history.

The ex-Liverpool and Chelsea boss is reportedly evaluating the proposal from Botafogo, who are reigning champions of both the Brazilian league and the Copa Libertadores.

The club are also set to face Atletico Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain and Seattle Sounders in next summer’s Club World Cup.

Benitez has yet to provide a definitive response to the approach from John Textor, the American investor and majority stakeholder at the club.

The final decision on the managerial appointment lies with Textor, who also has stakes in European clubs Lyon and Crystal Palace.

Both Lyon and Palace have shown interest in Benitez as well in the past.

Benitez boasts a distinguished career, having managed elite European sides including Valencia, Liverpool, Real Madrid, Chelsea, Newcastle, and Everton, as well as Inter Milan and Dalian Yifang in Asia.

Among his many successes, the Spaniard has won the Europa League twice, La Liga twice and even famously won the Champions League with Liverpool in 2005.

He's been out of work since March 2024 since leaving his role with Celta Vigo.

Now, he is contemplating a move to South America to lead a historic club that enjoyed a stellar 2024.

Botafogo claimed their third Brazilian league title and their maiden Copa Libertadores crown.

Following Artur Jorge’s departure earlier this year to join Al-Rayyan, the side are eager to secure a high-profile successor to continue their upward trajectory.