Source: Team_Talk
Rafa saddened by Anfield exit
ew Inter Milan boss Rafael Benitez admits it was hard for him to leave Liverpool but insists he had to do it.[LNB] Benitez parted company with the Reds by mutual consent at the beginning of the month after six years at Anfield, with the Spaniard paying the price for a disappointing season.[LNB]The Champions League-winning coach claims it was a wrench to leave Liverpool but knows it was obvious his time on Merseyside had come to an end.[LNB]"It was difficult to leave Liverpool after six years working there, I had amazing times there," said Benitez as he was presented to the press today. "Also my daughter is seven, she lived most of her life there.[LNB]"It's not easy but things changed so I needed to move and I had the perfect opportunity to come to Inter.[LNB]"I hope it will be perfect for me and perfect for Inter.[LNB]"The club was fantastic, the fans amazing so it was a really sad day when i had to go but things changed so it was obvious I had to do it."[LNB]Benitez refused to comment on his relationship with Liverpool owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett, adding: "The owners are the owners. Now I'm in a different club and I'm very happy to be here.[LNB]"My relationship with Liverpool fans was great from the beginning and I hope it will be so here. I think the fans will be happy."[LNB]Speculation is rife that Benitez will raid Liverpool for his former players, with Steven Gerrard and Javier Mascherano reportedly top of the wish list.[LNB]The 50-year-old remained tight-lipped on possible transfer targets, but hinted he could attempt to bring his former captain to the San Siro after the World Cup.[LNB]"I have been in contact with the majority of players and the majority said thanks for everything and all the best," said Benitez.[LNB]"I talked to Gerrard when it was his birthday and he's fine. He wants to talk about the World Cup now, not anything else.[LNB]"I wished them all good luck for the World Cup. Now they're all focused on that."[LNB]Benitez earned a place in Anfield folklore by guiding Liverpool to 2005 Champions League glory in his first season.[LNB]He followed that with FA Cup success in 2006 and another Champions League final appearance 12 months later. After finishing runners-up in the Premier League in 2009, many expected a serious title tilt this year but it failed to materialise.[LNB]Early elimination from the Champions League was followed by a failure to finish in the top four and to re-qualify for Europe's elite event.
