"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," Benitez said in a statement.
"The pandemic is still here, for all of us, and supporting our families has been a priority when making this decision."
Dalian failed to qualify for the Super League's Championship stage last season, which was affected by the pandemic, finishing seventh in their eight-team group. But they secured their top flight status in the relegation playoffs.
Benitez said he hoped he had left behind a vision for the club to build on.
"I'm convinced we have left a structure and a methodology that will allow the project to go ahead successfully," the 60-year-old said.
"The first team has been rejuvenated and the foundations have been laid for the future, from the grassroots schools to the top." ($1 = 0.7308 pounds)
Hoped he had left behind a vision for the club to build on
Benitez leaves Chinese side Dalian citing difficulties due to Covid-19
Image: PETER NICHOLLS
Rafa Benitez has left Chinese Super League side Dalian Pro, with the Spaniard saying on Saturday that the Covid-19 pandemic was a factor in his decision.
The former Liverpool and Real Madrid head coach was hired on a lucrative contract worth a reported 12 mln pounds (R242,47 mln) per year after he left Newcastle United in 2019.
"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," Benitez said in a statement.
"The pandemic is still here, for all of us, and supporting our families has been a priority when making this decision."
Dalian failed to qualify for the Super League's Championship stage last season, which was affected by the pandemic, finishing seventh in their eight-team group. But they secured their top flight status in the relegation playoffs.
Benitez said he hoped he had left behind a vision for the club to build on.
"I'm convinced we have left a structure and a methodology that will allow the project to go ahead successfully," the 60-year-old said.
"The first team has been rejuvenated and the foundations have been laid for the future, from the grassroots schools to the top." ($1 = 0.7308 pounds)
Subscribe for free: iono.fm | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Pocket Casts | Player.fm
Apply for jobs elsewhere, Pitso tells SA coaches
Al Ahly coach Pitso Mosimane recovers from Covid-19
Would you like to comment on this article?
Register (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Trending
Related articles
Latest Videos