Chelsea’s interim Coach Rafael Benitez has launched a broadside at the club’s fans for continually protesting his appointment.
The Spaniard, who has been linked with a move to Real Madrid’s bench this coming summer, was brought in by owner Roman Abramovich earlier in the season on a temporary basis until its end.
Sacking Roberto Di Matteo, who last year won the FA Cup and Champions League, the move angered supporters who pointed to Benitez’ strong past with rivals Liverpool.
Since displaying banners at games and chanting against the former Valencia boss, Benitez has seemingly indicated his exit is imminent, as he hit out at them after last night’s FA Cup fifth round win over Middlesbrough.
“This group of fans are not doing any favours to the team, while they are wasting time singing and preparing banners,” commented Benitez yesterday evening.
“They have to concentrate on supporting the team. Every game they continue singing and preparing banners they are wasting time. They have to take responsibility. They need to support the team.
“I am professional. I want to win every game but I will pick my team and make my decisions. I have been in charge of teams for 26 years and I've won trophies in three countries.
“The fans have to support the team and the players and we will do our jobs. If we cannot achieve what we expect to achieve, that is to be in the top four and be in the Champions League for next year, I will leave; they will stay in the Europa League.
“They don't realise that this is a team in transition. We have really good players with talent but it is a time of transition. I am trying to do my best and I will do my best until the end, the last minute.
“They can blame me for everything that goes wrong but if we get into the Champions League I will be the happiest man in the world, but I will leave because my contract ends.”
Also saying that club officials’ decision to label him as ‘interim Coach’ was a ‘mistake’, Benitez is reportedly set for talks over his future this week.
“It's because someone made a mistake. They put my title [as] interim manager, and I will leave at the end of the season, so they don't need to waste time with me.
“Someone decided it but it was a mistake. I am the manager. Look what I've done in 26 years. I have won the Champions League, the FIFA World Cup, the FA Cup, the Italian Super Cup, the Spanish League twice, nine trophies, all the trophies you can win at club level.”
