The secret to Rafa Benitez’s success in the transfer market is his dedication to finding players with the right attitude, according to one of his former scouts at Liverpool.
Laurent Viaud worked under the Spaniard at Anfield, and has opened up on the unorthodox approach that he has taken with him to Newcastle United.
Speaking to the Chronicle, Viaud said: “Rafa is not necessarily looking for the best player but the most complete player, either sportingly or mentally.
“He attaches great importance to the mental work and the room for improvement.
“He thinks a lot and takes a long time but once his choice is made, he will do everything to have this player.”
OPINION
For a manager of Benitez’s famous level-headedness, it is hardly a surprise to hear that he takes such a holistic and measured approach to his business in the transfer window. The Spaniard is a perfectionist, the sort of man obsessed with getting everything in order and spot on down to the letter. He knows that he doesn’t have a great deal of money to spend on Tyneside, and he also knows that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. It isn’t always about bringing in the biggest name or the brashest talent, sometimes it is better to be frugal and bring in a player who is capable of slotting into a system and a dressing room. Despite all the turmoil that has surrounded the club in recent years, Rafa has managed to build a proper unit at St. James’ Park, and that has been, and will continue to be, the secret of his success for the Toon Army.
