I don't really know what to make of that article, even though it's the Times, I'm still very skeptical.
If it's true and he leaves, I would be absolutely gutted.
Rafael BenĂtez could bid an emotional farewell to Anfield tomorrow after a breakdown of trust between the Liverpool manager and the board.
The clubâs hierarchy believe BenĂtez is âplaying gamesâ as he weighs up an offer to take over at Juventus.
Sources at Anfield said last night that the situation looks increasingly untenable for both parties, but the mechanics of BenĂtezâs departure remain unclear because of two factors: the extraordinary sum of ÂŁ16 million that he would be due as compensation if relieved of his duties and the uncertainty over the future ownership of the club.
The board insists that BenĂtezâs potential payoff will not stop it acting decisively. However, the Spaniard believes he has a watertight five-year contract, agreed only last year, which entitles him to be paid within 24 hours of having his contract terminated.
With at least two groups expressing serious interest in buying Liverpool from Tom Hicks and George Gillett Jr, the uncertainty may be prolonged until a takeover has been finalised, but the clubâs hierarchy are prepared to discuss the matter with potential investors if they fear BenĂtez has become a âlame duckâ manager after a wretched season in which they lie seventh in the Barclays Premier League with two matches remaining, the first against Chelsea in a potential title decider tomorrow.
BenĂtez has an arrangement with Christian Purslow, the managing director, to sit down at the end of the season, after the final Premier League fixture away to Hull City a week tomorrow, to discuss the future. Having not yet spoken to Martin Broughton, who was appointed as chairman a fortnight ago, BenĂtez fears the worst, but a swift resolution looks unlikely. The Liverpool board will not stand in BenĂtezâs way if he wants to join Juventus or any other club, which would at least spare it the payout.
BenĂtez said yesterday: âI decided to stay last year because of the fans and for one year I have been working hard, trying to do my best. We will see what happens in the future.â
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