By Safiu Kehinde
Liverpool fans have once again stood to their words that “You’ll never walk alone” as they reacted to the departure of Rafa Benitez from local rivals Everton during their match against Brentford at Anfield today.
Following the news on Benitez’s sack earlier today, the Kops busted into the old chant they once sang during the Spaniard’s era at Anfield.
“Rafa, Rafael, Rafael Benitez” echoed across the stadium before the start of the second half against Brentford. This is not the first time that the fans will do such to their past managers and players.
During Steven Gerrard’s first match as Aston Villa boss, which was against Liverpool, the fans had to resist the urge to chant the legend’s name as he pitched his team against his old club. Regardless, the Reds still had their way in recognition of their former captain.
Meanwhile, Rafa Benitez’s sacking came few hours after Everton’s defeat to Premier League struggler, Norwich City yesterday. The Toffees had indeed had enough after falling into 9th defeat across 12 Premier League matches.
Benitez had only replaced Carlo Ancelloti who left for Real Madrid before the start of the 2022/2022 season. The former Liverpool, Chelsea, and Newcastle boss however failed to win the hearts of the fans who are unimpressed with the club’s performance.
With a banner with the inscription “Benitez get out of our club” held up in the crowd yesterday, Benitez’s fate was already stamped with the management finalizing the process today.
“Everton Football Club can confirm the departure of Rafael Benitez as first team manager.
“Benitez, who joined Everton in June 2021, has left the club with immediate effect.
“An update on a permanent replacement will be made in due course,” an official statement from the club’s website read, announcing an end to the Spaniard’s six and half months stay at Goodison Park.
