Rafa Benitez has left his role as manager of Chinese Super League team Dalian Professional by mutual consent.

The former Liverpool and Newcastle manager says he made the decision partly due to concerns about the health and well-being of his family.

“Unfortunately, like so many things in the last year, Covid-19 has changed our lives and our projects,” the 60-year-old Spaniard wrote on his website.
“From today, both my coaching staff and I will sadly no longer be coaching the Dalian Professional F. C.

“It has been an incredible experience and for this I would like to thank all my staff, coaches, medical and club staff, as well as our players.

“Their commitment to us in the first place, their support during the time we were there, and their effort has been magnificent.

“The pandemic is still here, for all of us, and supporting our families has been a priority when making this decision.”

2005 Champions League winning manager Benitez spent 18 months in charge of the club and he's now expected to return to England.