Rafael Benitez has turned down the opportunity to take over at Italian side Sampdoria.

 

The 1992 European Cup finalists gained promotion back to Serie A this season and will look to enjoy a return campaign back in Italy’s top flight in style.

 

At the club the thinking had been that Benitez could plot Sampdoria’s revival and polish a damaged reputation in the Italian game after failing at Inter.

 

But Benitez has not been sold on the prospect of assuming control of Samp.

 

"This is not the right time", said the former Liverpool manager.

 

Benitez has been out of work since being sacked by Inter in December 2010.

 

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