Former Liverpool and Valencia boss Rafa Benitez has revealed that he declined an offer to manage Sampdoria because his priority is to find a job in England.
Benitez has been out of work since being sacked by Inter Milan in December 2010 and despite claiming to have had a series of offers he has been insistent that he would not take a new role unless it felt absolutely right.
Sampdoria were the latest club to be linked with the Spanish boss, but while Benitez admitted he was flattered by the interest from the Blucerchiati - promoted from Serie B last season - he rejected the chance to return to Italy because he is holding out for a Premier League position.
"Sampdoria was very serious, very professional and they have a project," Benitez said. "My idea is to find a club that can match my desire, my expectations to challenge for trophies.
"This time (Sampdoria) was really good, I was really pleased as they were thinking of me but I am waiting for maybe another option.
"The priority is England but I have to be ready for any other challenge. I try to find someone that will be at the top and take on the challenge for trophies, the Premier League, Champions League, Europa League so something that you can win.''
Benitez has previously won the Primera Division twice with Valencia, the 2005 Champions League with Liverpool and the 2010 World Club Cup with Inter Milan.
