Benitez will not coach Aston Villa team © EuroFootball.com

Rafael Benitez will not become the new manager of Birmingham club.

The specialist, who does not hide his desire to work in England again, was considered the main contender to replace Gerard Houllier, but this opportunity did not interest him.

Among other candidates, the Italian Carlo Ancelotti was mentioned, but he decided to take a break from coaching for a year. The candidacy of the Englishman Steve McClaren was also rejected.

In the Premier League, Aston Villa finished last season in ninth place.