'It’s an addiction’: Rafa Benítez on Celta Vigo struggles, family and clamour for Xabi Alonso

Iconic Spanish manager and serial winner shares the intricacies of his unceasing passion for coaching and his love of Jamie Carragher, writes Rob Draper

RAFA THE GAFA: Rafa Benitez, Head Coach of Celta Vigo, looks on prior to the LaLiga EA Sports match between Celta Vigo and UD Almeria. Photo by Octavio Passos/Getty Images.

Rafa Benítez bounds into the hotel bar with a jaunty smile, a firm handshake and the air of a man wholly at ease with the world.

The sun is shining on the Galician coast, the bar overlooks the idyllic Ría de Vigo estuary, all rocky coves and hidden beaches. He insists you try the local octopus delicacy.