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Rafael Benitez could be on the verge of returning to management nearly one year after his dismissal from Celta Vigo.

The 64-year-old Spaniard, who turns 65 next month, has been linked with several high-profile positions since his La Liga exit but remains without a club as potential opportunities have either fallen through or failed to materialize.

In 2024, Celta Vigo parted ways with Benitez after a disappointing eight-month tenure that saw the club languishing in 17th position in La Liga.

Despite signing a three-year contract in what was meant to be a long-term project, Benitez’s time at Balaídos ended prematurely after winning just five of his 28 league matches in charge.

In January 2025, Benitez appeared close to ending his managerial hiatus when Brazilian side Botafogo identified him as their preferred candidate.

According to multiple reports, Benitez was engaged in “advanced discussions” with the South American club and had “impressed” Botafogo’s hierarchy.

However, just days later, Benitez reportedly declined the opportunity to take charge of the Brazilian outfit after discussions with his family.

Despite being one of the final two candidates for the position, the Spaniard ultimately turned down the role that would have seen him manage in South America for the first time in his career.

But now it seems that Rafa Benitez has another chance to return to management.

According to a report from the Daily Record this week, San Francisco 49ers-backed consortium, which has agreed a deal in principle to take ownership of Glasgow Rangers, has identified Benitez as their preferred managerial candidate.

“The San Francisco 49ers backed consortium are considering Rafa Benitez as Rangers’ next permanent manager, when they complete their takeover,” reported the Daily Record, suggesting that Benitez could be set for his first managerial role in Scotland.

With Barry Ferguson currently in temporary charge following Philippe Clement’s departure, Rangers’ potential new owners appear to be targeting Benitez to lead a new era at Ibrox?

This opportunity could represent Benitez’s final chance to rehabilitate his managerial reputation at a major European club.

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