Rafa Benitez was delighted after Saturday’s away win against Aston Villa, and has confessed that he is on course to complete the objectives asked of him when signing across the dotted line.

Chelsea came back from a goal down against a rejuvenated Villa side, with a brace from legend Frank Lampard. Villa are fighting relegation themselves, and were resistant to Chelsea attacks, but Benitez’s tactics were spot on, as his side confirmed UEFA Champions League qualification.

Also, after dropping out of the Champions League this season in the group stage, the Blues gained automatic qualification into the UEFA Europa League round of 32. Under the leadership of Benitez, Chelsea won against Sparta Prague, Steaua Bucuresti, Rubin Kazan, and FC Basel to proceed to the final of the competition. They meet Portuguese side Benfica, and a win in Amsterdam would secure Champions League qualification on both fronts.

According to the DailyMail, Benitez’s family is still based in Liverpool, and the Spaniard is looking to stay in the Barclays Premier League once his term at Chelsea is finished after the Europa League final this month. Teams like Newcastle United, who have secured safety in the Premier League, are rumored to be interested in his services next season. However, it would be difficult for Benitez to find a job at the level of Liverpool and Chelsea, as most of the top teams have settled managers.

The manager has received criticism from the Chelsea supporters for certain decisions made this season, and his job seemed to be most difficult in the initial stages. But ever since the race for the top four has intensified, Benitez has pulled the strings, and the Blues have won five of their last six matches in all competitions.

Benitez believes he has proved his credentials to certain supporters, but conceded that he cannot have everyone happy with his job.

He said, “The Premier League is a fantastic league. My family are still in Liverpool and it would be easy to stay.”

“I would go to Italy or France or Spain but this is my No 1 choice.”

He continued: “I can say that a lot of fans are telling me I am doing a good job. You can’t convince everyone but I’m sure a lot will be pleased with the job I have done. It has been a success, 100 per cent.”

“I came here and did a professional job from day one.”

It will be interesting to see which clubs move for the Spaniard, and whether he does stay in England or move abroad.