Benitez explains decision not to join players in saluting fans
Rafael Benitez said he chose not to join his squad on the pitch after the win against Everton because he wanted the players to enjoy the spotlight.
A 2-1 victory in their final match of the season marked the end of Benitez’s evenful spell as Chelsea’s interim manager.
The Europa League trophy was paraded as the players were given a rousing send-off by the home fans after the final whistle, but Benitez opted to stay away.
“That part of the game is for the players and their families,” he said.
“I received hundreds of messages from Chelsea fans on the website saying ‘Thank you very much’ and that was very positive for me.
“That is enough, and also the players thanking me privately.”
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