Everton supporters have been reacting to the news that former Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has been appointer as manager.
Benitez has proved a divisive appointment among the Everton fanbase after comments about Everton being a 'small' club, although the majority appear to back him now that he is in situ at Goodison Park.
Confirming the appointment, Everton majority shareholder Farhad Moshiri said:
“Rafa impressed us greatly with his knowledge and experience but, above all, the passion and hunger he showed to join our Club.
“We are appointing Rafa because we believe he will bring success to our Club and to Evertonians. To put it simply - we need to be competing at the top-end of the league and to be winning trophies.
Rafa is a proven winner with huge experience in coaching internationally and we have secured the best man to achieve that for us.”
Benitez
Benitez told Everton's website, "It is a privilege to have been given the opportunity to manage Everton.
"Having called Merseyside my home for the last 17 years, I have a very clear understanding of what makes this club so special.
"This club is always striving to be the best. Simply competing in the top league is not enough.
"That ambition and determination to succeed is something I share. I never want to just compete - at every club I have managed I have fought to win. My focus is always on one thing - fighting for the team I am managing. And I will do that for Everton.
"The hard work starts now. It is a challenge I am relishing."
Benitez reaction
Reactions among the Everton support have been somewhat mixed.
Good Luck Rafa. And welcome to the Ev. 💙
— Simon underwood (@co_underwood) June 30, 2021
— Ryan 👽 (@Dixie_Deano) June 30, 2021
Like most honourable Blues, I will give Rafa my full backing as he steps into the hot seat. Good luck to Rafa and COYB!
— Ian Davies (@IanDavies1967) June 30, 2021
Shite news, this season is going to be an utter car crash.
— John Black (@JB_1964) June 30, 2021
Good luck to him.. he has a challenge both on and off the pitch, but we should at least hope he can stabilise the team..
— kevin golding (@g0ldingkev) June 30, 2021
Someone has fraudulently applied to renew my season in my name. It’s just a coincidence I’m bringing this up shortly after this announcement. If you’ll refund me I’ll consider the matter closed
— Daniel Beacham (@DanielBeacham9) June 30, 2021
The lowest of the low
— John Quirk (@johnquirky) June 30, 2021
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