New Inter Milan boss Rafael
Benitez admits it was difficult for him to leave Liverpool but insists he had to do it.
Benitez parted company with the Reds by mutual consent at the
beginning of the month after six years at Anfield, with the
Spaniard paying the price for a disappointing season.
"It was difficult to leave Liverpool after six years working there, I had
amazing times there," said Benitez as he was presented to the press
today. "Also my daughter is seven, she lived most of her life
there.
"It's not easy but things changed so I needed to move and I had
the perfect opportunity to come to Inter.
"I hope it will be perfect for me and perfect for Inter.
"The club was fantastic, the fans amazing so it was a really sad
day when I had to go but things changed so it was obvious I had to
do it."
Benitez refused to comment on his relationship with
Liverpool owners Tom Hicks and
George Gillett, adding: "The owners are the owners. Now I'm in a
different club and I'm very happy to be here.
"My relationship with Liverpool fans was great from the beginning and I
hope it will be so here. I think the fans will be happy."
The 50-year-old remained tight-lipped on possible transfer
targets at his old club, but hinted he could attempt to bring his
former captain to the San Siro after the World
Cup.
"I have been in contact with the majority of players and the
majority said thanks for everything and all the best," said
Benitez.
"I talked to Gerrard when it was his birthday and he's fine. He
wants to talk about the World
Cup now, not anything else.
"I wished them all good luck for the World
Cup. Now they're all focused on that."