Why Chelsea might hand an extension to Rafael Benitez

It was clear from the beginning for Rafael Benitez that he is only going to last till the end of the season at Stamford Bridge and not any further. The appointment of their new interim manager was not welcomed by Chelsea fans, with posters, banners and jeers directed at Benitez. He was destined to experience a hostile reception by the Chelsea fans especially when he was appointed to replace club legend Roberto Di Matteo.

The interim manager tag held up the drama and rumours for who is going to be the next Chelsea manager with Pep Guardiola touted as Roman Abramovich’s favourite. Guardiola’s appointment as the next Bayern Munich manager has not put the speculations to the bed; instead it has given rise to a new guessing game of who is the new favourite to take control at Stamford Bridge.

One man who has looked least bothered with all of these speculations is the former Liverpool manager; in fact he has looked more bothered with Chelsea fans and the Blues’ home form with one draw and two loses in the last four home games.

Blues’ revival from their slump following their exit from the group stages of the Champions League has been largely due to Benitez’s appointment, as he has brought in a certain amount of patience and composure to the team. Chelsea’s defence has found their organised structure under the Spaniard and continued with their newly developed attacking style.

A section of Chelsea fans, journalist and Football experts are now voicing for Benitez’s permanent appointment. This definitely will not go down well with Chelsea fans but with Guardiola opting for Bayern, Jose Mourinho and Carlo Ancelotti sacked by Chelsea, there is a dearth of managers willing to overtake at Stamford Bridge, those available are definitely not of Roman’s choice.

Benitez has an impressive CV with two La Liga, Champions League, Club World Cup, and FA Cup among others. His constant squad rotation policy also helps keeping the whole squad happy and involved, something really essential for a club like Chelsea having number of quality players competing for limited places.

The decision lies in Abramovich’s hand and Chelsea fans definitely don’t want Benitez, but given the Blues’ revival this season under his guidance and lack of potential replacement in market, it might just be the right reason to give him an extended run.