Setien to replace Bentiez at Dalian
According to reports from Spain, the Chinese Super-League side is close to appointing Quique Setien as their new head coach after the departure of their former manager, Rafael Benitez.
"It looks like [Benitez] will be replaced by a Spaniard, since Quique Setien is being lined up as the potential replacement. The former Barcelona coach has been considered by various clubs in the Asian league and is in advanced talks with Dalian Pro,"
said Spanish news outlet Marca.
After finishing 12
th
in the 16-teamed Chinese league, 60-year-old
Benitez
left Dalian with one year remaining on his contract with the club.
"Due to personal reasons, Mr. Rafa Benitez will leave his post as Dalian Pro FC head coach as of today,"
read a
Dalian
statement on Sunday.
The club added that the former Real Madrid coach has
"incorporated advanced football concepts from Europe into building the club's first team.
"Mr Benitez also was devoted to the youth training system, helping lay a solid foundation for the club's development in the future. Dalian Pro FC would like to express heartfelt thanks to Mr Benitez and his team for their contribution,"
the club said.
Benitez
wrote on his personal website:
"Unfortunately, like so many things in the last year, COVID-19 has changed our lives and our projects. From today, both my coaching staff and I will sadly no longer be coaching Dalian Professional FC.
"I say goodbye sadly under these circumstances, but at the same time I am convinced that the future will be bright for Dalian Pro," Benitez added.
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