Rafael Benitez: 6 Most Head-Scratching Quotes by the Chelsea Manager

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Rafael Benitez is far from being the most popular man to have managed Chelsea. However, his latest rant after Chelsea's FA cup victory over Middlesbrough seems to have harmed his chances of becoming the full-time manager beyond repair.

It is not the first time Benitez has been caught making some questionable statements.

Here is a selection of some of the most head-scratching quotes by the interim Chelsea manager.

Complains at 'Interim' Title

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On his place at Chelsea, 2013 (via The Telegraph):

I have a title. Someone decided the title would be 'interim'. Why? Just in case?

If they want to blame me for everything that is wrong and then they say, 'We will put interim just in case', fine, that is your decision.

I don't agree, but it's your decision and now everybody has to take responsibility.

...but isn't it better than "fat waiter?"

Takes a Shot at Chelsea, Later Becomes Manager

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After playing Chelsea, 2007 (via The Times):

If Chelsea are naive and pure then I'm Little Red Riding Hood.

It's now 2013, and he may not be Little Red Riding Hood, but he is the Chelsea manager.

Takes Another Shot at Chelsea

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On the Chelsea fans, 2007 (via The Sun):

We don’t need to give away flags for our fans to wave—our supporters are always there with their hearts, and that is all we need.

It’s the passion of the fans that helps to win matches—not flags.

It's hard to see why the Chelsea fans haven't warmed to him.

Takes Another Shot at Chelsea, Again

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On Chelsea winning the Premier League, 2005 (via The Daily Mail):

To me, Arsenal played much better football two or three years ago. They won matches and were exciting to watch. They create excitement so how can you say Chelsea are the best in the world?

Those trophies might go a little way towards helping you figure it out, Rafa.

Refuses to Congratulate Fergie

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On Manchester United winning Sir Alex Ferguson's 11th League title in 2009 (via The Metro):  

I prefer just to say well done to the club, a big club, a good club.  Normally you have to be polite and respect the other manager. During the season we have seen a lot of things that I didn't like, so that's it. I say congratulations to United because they have won. And that's it.

Not everyone loves Fergie, but that is 11 more EPL titles than Benitez has.

Sheila Saw It Cross the Line

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On Luis Garcia's "ghost goal" in the Champions League, 2005 (via ESPN):

After the game, Sheila, who was sitting right in line, said to me that the ball had crossed the line. She is a very honest person and that was good enough for me. It was a goal.

Well if Sheila says it crossed the line...