Shortly after taking charge in late October 2025, veteran Spanish coach Rafael Benitez began his tenure with Greek club Panathinaikos on a promising note. In a period of just two weeks, he led the team in five matches, restoring the winning rhythm that had been lacking before his arrival. This strong start came after he took over a team that was in seventh place in the Greek league and struggling with inconsistent results in the European league.

Bennitez's initial results demonstrate his ability to make an immediate impact, as he achieved four victories out of five matches played. These wins included an away victory in the Europa League against Malmo, as well as significant wins in the Greek league, the latest being a victory over PAOK Thessaloniki. Despite the only loss to Volos, initial statistics indicate that the team has regained its confidence under Bennitez's leadership.

Thanks to his extensive experience training major European clubs, Benitez is seen as a significant boost to Panathinaikos's ambitions, as the team seeks to return to the top after a long absence from titles. Benitez focuses on precise tactical organization, which has started to show in the team's performance in its early matches, giving fans hope that the Spanish coach can rebuild the team and improve its results in the long term.

Bennitez's mission is still in its early stages, but the initial results and noticeable improvement in the team's performance suggest that he is capable of achieving the club's goals. As the season progresses, it will become clearer whether he can maintain this momentum and further develop the team, but the positive start is an encouraging sign of his ability to restore Panathinaikos to its rightful place among the top Greek and European clubs.