Rafael Benitez is set to make Greek football history as he closes in on becoming the new Panathinaikos manager.
The Spaniard is reportedly on the brink of succeeding Rui Vitoria and taking the 17th managerial job of his long career.
Former Liverpool boss Benitez has been away from the dugout since leaving Celta Vigo in March 2024.
The Champions League winner has previously enjoyed success across Europe during his managerial career.
His time in England includes his impressive spell at Anfield and his tenure in charge of Chelsea, Newcastle and Everton.
The 65-year-old has also managed the likes of Valencia, Inter Milan, Real Madrid and Napoli.
However, he is now set to head to Greece for the first time in his coaching career.
According to local outlet Sport24, Benitez has agreed a two-and-a-half-year deal with Panathinaikos.
And his imminent move to the Greek Super League is going to make history.
Benitez's reported £3.47million-per-year contract will make him the highest-paid manager ever in the country.
He held talks with club president Giannis Alafouzos in London earlier this month and his appointment is expected soon.
It comes after 20-time Greek champions Panathinaikos parted ways with former boss Vitoria back in September.
How are Panathinaikos doing this season?
Panathinaikos currently sit seventh in the table, eight points adrift of leaders PAOK but with a game in hand.
They have only lost one match so far this season, however, three draws from their opening six games see them off the pace.
The Greek giants are also competing in the Europa League, losing 3-1 to Robin van Persie's Feyenoord on Thursday night.
That result has left them 22nd in the League Phase table and in need of a boost from their new boss once his arrival is confirmed.
Should Benitez be appointed before the weekend, his first game would be a home meeting with Asteras Tripolis on Sunday.
If he starts fresh next week, he could be on the touchline for a cup fixture away at Atromitos on Wednesday, October 29.
Returning to the dugout
Benitez is on his way back into football management for a hefty wage after more than a year out.
As mentioned, his most recent job was in Spain with Celta Vigo, where he took charge of 33 games and only won nine.
Before that was his spell at Everton, where in his 22 fixtures, the Toffees only managed to come out on top seven times.
Benitez arrived at Goodison Park after two years at Chinese side Dalian Pro, a role that followed his three years at Newcastle.
And now he is set to take on his new role at Panathinaikos, just over ten years after he became Real Madrid boss.
He had been tipped to succeed Russell Martin at Rangers this month, but they appointed Danny Rohl instead.
