Bienvenido a Liverpool senor Benitez. Estoy muy contento y me allegro hoy.
Benitez has officially resigned from his post in Valencia. I do not think Benitez would have resigned unless he had signed an agreement or a letter of intent with another team. This team must surely be Liverpool FC. I think Benitez is an interesting choice and I am looking forward to his arrival at Anfield. Last time I believe Liverpool FC made a huge mistake. Houllier had been out of club managment for more than 10 years when he arrived at Liverpool.There is a big difference between being director of football, technical director and even national coach than being involved in a club on a daily basis. I also think Houlliers main achievements have been off pitch (academy, other facilities, professionalism).
This time around we get a coach whose main strenghts are training, man management and tactical awareness. His Valencia team are the darlings of spain, and I must say they have been really impressive over the last two years. If Benitez can make us as good as Valencia, I would be very happy.
Improvements:
Today we are far behind most top teams in Europe in terms of quality. Benitez will need time and a money. He inherits a team desperately short in basic footballing skills. We give the ball away too easily, we lack pace and strenght in key areas and we create very few chances. Correcting this will be his first priority. Will he find a new Ruben Baraja, a new Costihna, or a new Vicente somewhere? I hope so.
I have criticised Houllier several times for his lack of style and formation on the pitch. Liverpool has not had a clear defensive or offensive strategy and gameplan. With Benitez I expect this to change. If we can defend and attack as a unit, we will pick up more points.
All players will be given a fresh start to their Liverpool careers. This effect may potentially be very strong as former "out of favour" players have the opportunity to win a place in the first eleven. Also Houlliers favourites know this. They need to work hard to impress the new manager as well.
How long will it take before we can challenge for the major titles? Realistically 3-5 years. Hopefully 2 years.
I can mention negatives on this appointment as well. But I do not want do do that. I want to stay positive and enjoy a nice summer full of football and fun.