Rafa Benitez has shared his thoughts on why he believes Sir Alex Ferguson was "so worried about Liverpool" while he was manager.
United and Liverpool clashed in numerous Premier League matches throughout the Ferguson and Benitez periods, as both teams fought for dominance both at home and in Europe.
During that season, tensions between the managers and the teams would escalate, topping Benitez's now-famous and blatant tirade at Ferguson over 'facts'.
Ferguson's team won their Merseyside opponents by four points in the English League title between United and Liverpool in the 2008–09 season.
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13:26 - 21.08.2024
Rafael Benitez snubs Cristiano Ronaldo, discloses the best player he has ever coached
The former Valencia, Liverpool, Inter and Real Madrid boss has revealed the finest player to have played under him.
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11:29 - 16.04.2024
They will make mistakes: Rafa Benitez predicts Premier League winners
Former Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has made a bold prediction in the Premier League title race.
Benitez speaks on rivalry with Ferguson
Benitez said that Ferguson was always "nervous" and that he "didn't want to play mind games" when it came to Liverpool.
![Rafa Benitez, former Liverpool manager || Imago](https://sportal365images.com/process/smp-images-production/ringier.africa/21082024/8441d78d-e5de-42a7-a190-27cd2ccf0751.jpg?operations=fit(480:))
Reflecting on his explosive press conference, Benitez, speaking on the Stick to Football Podcast, brought to you by Sky Bet said, “It's not possible and I'll tell you why.
"We went to Old Trafford, and there was a boy with a father. He has a big banner, "Rafa is cracking up." And we beat Manchester United, 4-1.
![Sir Alex Ferguson, Man United legendary manager || Imago](https://sportal365images.com/process/smp-images-production/ringier.africa/21082024/60e1d782-7790-478e-a30a-804f868bb0da.jpg?operations=fit(480:))
“You were cracking up, because Sir Alex Ferguson was so worried about us, that he was using everything he has in his book to create [that environment].
“When we were ahead [in the League] you had two games in hand, because you played in the Club World Cup. Then you came back and you won the games and obviously, you were doing well.
“Cracking up, I was joking, because the last 11 games we drew one against Arsenal 4-4 at home, and we won ten.
“So, we were not cracking up – you had extra time, and then you play seven minutes extra and you score against Aston Villa with [Federico] Macheda.”
Meanwhile, Rafael Benitez has snubbed Cristiano Ronaldo and disclosed the best player he has ever coached.