Former Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez in contention for top job at Botafogo – ten months after he was sacked by LaLiga club

Rafa Benitez is down to the final two candidates for the head coach vacancy with Copa Libertadores champions Botafogo.

Mail Sport understands the former Liverpool boss is in advanced discussions with the Brazilian club, that is owned by Crystal Palace majority shareholder John Textor, over a shock return to football management.

Discussions with Benitez are described as ongoing by well-placed sources with a final decision on who will replace Artur Jorge, who left the club last month, still to be made.

But Benitez has impressed leading members of Botafogo’s hierarchy and has a excellent chance of taking the job.

Portuguese coach Vasco Matos and Argentine Tato Martino are reported to be the other contenders for the position.

Benitez has enjoyed an excellent career in European football. In addition to his historic spell at Anfield, where he lifted the Champions League, the Spaniard has also managed at Chelsea, Valencia, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, Everton and Newcastle.

Owner John Textor (left) is said to be mulling a move for the former Liverpool head coach to replace Artur Jorge (centre right)

But he has been out of work since leaving Celta Vigo in March 2024.

The 64-year-old, however, is close to securing a return to football with Botafogo, who are the reigning Brazilian and South American champions.

Botafogo will compete in the inaugural Club World Cup later this year.