Ronaldo or Gerrard: Rafael Benitez Picks the Best Player He Ever Coached

• Rafael Benitez has enjoyed a distinguished managerial career, leading several top European clubs like Liverpool, Real Madrid and Chelsea to success
• The Spanish tactician has had the privilege of coaching many exceptional footballers throughout his illustrious career, spanning over 15 years
• Among these standout talents are global icons such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale, Eden Hazard, Steven Gerrard, and Frank Lampard

Spanish tactician Rafael Benitez has opened up about the best player he has ever coached in his managerial career.

The experienced gaffer has coached several top European clubs throughout his career, including Liverpool, Real Madrid, and Chelsea.

Managing a leading club involves working with some of the sport’s elite talents, and for the Spaniard, this included well-known figures like Cristiano Ronaldo, Frank Lampard, and Steven Gerrard.

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Benitez and Neville speak on greats

In a conversation with ex-Manchester United defender Gary Neville on The Overlap, Benitez said Gerrard was the one player who truly distinguished himself among all the stars he has coached.

Neville asked Benitez if he had any doubts about Gerrard playing as one of two midfielders in his Liverpool squads, to which the 64-year-old responded:

“It’s not about trust," he said when recalling his side that featured Xabi Alonso and Fernando Torres.

“Stevie is the best player that I have ever coached.”

Appearing to reference Ronaldo, Benitez smiled:

“Because when I was in Madrid I couldn’t say that! “But now I can say that. It’s very clear. He had everything.”

Benitez's club honours

During his tenure at Anfield between 2004 and 2010, Benitez won the Champions League and followed it up with an FA Cup victory in 2006

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He had success elsewhere, too. The Spaniard won two La Liga trophies and one UEFA Cup with Valencia between 2001 and 2004, per Goal.

He won the Europa League in 2013 with Chelsea, despite facing fierce opposition to his appointment.

Meanwhile, during his time at Napoli in 2014, Benitez secured the Italian Cup, and in 2017, he led Newcastle to the Championship title.

Ronaldo backed to make Manchester United return

Earlier, YEN.com.gh reported that former Manchester United striker Louis Saha has hinted at a potential future return for Ronaldo to Old Trafford.

Saha backed Ronaldo, proposing that the Portuguese legend could one day return as a manager.

The former French international believes Ronaldo has the potential to excel in a managerial role, though he would need to adapt his attitude to succeed.

Source: YEN.com.gh