Rafa Benitez sacked by Real Madrid

Former Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez appears to have been sacked by Real Madrid, just six months after taking his dream job.

*There is no official confirmation as yet but it is likely to come later today, despite Real currently sitting in 2nd place, just 1 point from leaders Barcelona.

Real Madrid President Florentino Perez called an emergency board meeting for today and reports here in Spain claim that Rafa’s future has been decided regardless.

Speaking after securing a 2-2 draw at Valencia with ten men yesterday following Mateo Kovacic’s dismissal, Rafa said: “I can’t avoid that some people will start speculating [about my future]. What I can do is ensure my team puts in the work like they put in tonight. Sadly, for all of their efforts, we couldn’t take the three points.”

Valencia fans chanted Rafa’s name throughout the match (see video below) and also displayed a giant banner which translated to: “Rafa, you gave us the best years of our lives. Thank you.”

Last month, Rafa insisted that there was a witch hunt against Perez, himself and his players.

He said: “It’s clear there’s a witch hunt against Florentino, myself and the entire team. Everything we do or say is criticised, manipulated, taken out of context and anyone with a bit of experience can see that.”

Real Madrid fans launched an online petition last month demanding that Perez stands down with immediate effect.

• *UPDATED: Real Madrid have now confirmed his sacking