Premier League: Rafael Benitez Appointed Everton Boss Despite Fan Protests

Premier League: Rafael Benitez's appointment will antagonise a significant section of Everton's fan base after he criticised the Toffees during his time at Liverpool.

Everton confirmed the appointment of Rafael Benitez as their new manager on Wednesday despite fan protests against the Premier League club's move for the former Liverpool boss. Benitez has agreed a three-year contract with Everton and succeeds Carlo Ancelotti, who left Goodison Park to join Real Madrid at the start of June. The Spaniard is the first man to manage both Merseyside teams since William Edward Barclay in the 1890s. "I am delighted to be joining Everton," said Benitez. "Throughout this process I have been greatly impressed by the ambition shown by the senior representatives at the club and their desire to bring success to this historic club. "I believe this is a club that is going places. I'm determined to play a big part in helping this great club achieve its ambitions." Benitez's appointment will antagonise a significant section of Everton's fan base after he criticised the Toffees during his time at Liverpool.