Perez backs Benitez

 

Rafael Benitez has the full backing of the Real Madrid board, president Florentino Perez has confirmed.

 

Speculation began to mount on Sunday that the Spaniard would be relieved of his duties at the Bernabeu following the 4-0 defeat to Barcelona in Saturday's Clasico.

 

However, while Benitez is under more pressure than ever in the Spanish capital, Perez insists the 55-year-old will not be sacked, despite Los Blancos losing back-to-back league matches for the first time since September 2014.

 

Perez backs Benitez

 

"We analysed the sporting situation and I want to inform you that our coach Rafa Benitez has our full support and our full confidence," Perez told the media on Monday.

 

"He was picked for his professionalism, his achievements, his experience and his ability. Rafa has just started his job here, let him keep working and he will achieve his objective."

 

Saturday's defeat to Barcelona saw Madrid drop to third in La Liga, six points behind the Blaugrana and two below city rivals Atletico Madrid.

 

For more stats on Real Madrid, click here to view their WhoScored team page