Inter confirm end of Benitez's brief era

(GETTY IMAGES)

Internazionale have confirmed the departure of Rafael Benitez after days of speculation over his future. A statement released on the club's website yesterday announced that they had reached "a mutually satisfactory agreement for the early termination of his contract".

Benitez's future had been in doubt since he challenged the board to back him in the transfer market following his victory in the Club World Cup last weekend, and demanded "respect and assistance" from the club. He had been frustrated with the lack of funds and autonomy for transfers. Inter are seventh in Serie A, having won the treble under Jose Mourinho last season. When asked about Benitez's time at Inter, Mourinho said: "Ask all the Inter fans what they think of me and him."