Rafael Benitez was fired as head coach of Spanish La Liga team Celta Vigo less than nine months into his position.

Benítez’s dismissal was declared by Celta Vigo in a statement on Tuesday.

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“Rafa Benitez and his staff leave RC Celta after eight months of absolute dedication and total commitment, but in which the team has not obtained the results expected by the club.

“The club would like to express to Rafa Benitez and his assistants its most sincere gratitude for the honesty and professionalism they have shown since their arrival and the tireless work they have done. RC Celta would also like to wish them the best of luck and success in the future.”

Having won the Europa League with Chelsea in 2013, Benitez arrived to Celta Vigo on June 23, 2018, and he is leaving after leading the team in just five of his 28 league games.

The 63-year-old, who won the UEFA Champions League in 2005 while playing for Liverpool, departs the team 17th in the top division of Spain, two points clear of the relegation zone.

It marked Benitez’s first managerial position following his dismissal from Everton in January 2022.

Celta won just nine games in 33 matches in all competitions, three of them came against Copa del Rey teams from lesser divisions.

Sunday’s 4-0 loss to Real Madrid, another of his previous clubs, marked his farewell match with Celta.