Rafa wishes Reds well after 'very emotional' Anfield return
Returning to Anfield in the opposition dugout again proved 'very emotional' for Rafael Benitez as his Newcastle United team held Liverpool to a 2-2 draw on Saturday.
The Kop sang the former Reds manager’s name within seconds of the Barclays Premier League game kicking off, and once more following the final whistle.
Benitez, who oversaw Champions League and FA Cup glory during his six-year spell in charge here, guided the Magpies to a point courtesy of a second-half comeback from two goals down.
Afterwards, the Spaniard reflected on the reception he was afforded and wished his old club well ahead of their Europa League semi-final against Villarreal.
He said: “It was very emotional. The fans, the city, the club – I have a very good relationship with Liverpool, obviously. My family is still living here.
“It was emotional because the Liverpool fans were singing my name and the Newcastle fans were singing my name. I was really pleased to have this reaction.
“And I was really pleased because we got a point against a very good team. Hopefully they can do well in the Europa League now.”