Overview
- Benitez reiterated the claim in an excerpt published on Liverpoolfc.com on Wednesday from the official book Liverpool’s Greatest: A Celebration of 100 Reds Stars.
- In the excerpt he said Gerrard was "more complete" than players he later coached such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and Samuel Eto'o.
- Benitez listed concrete attributes that underpinned his view, citing Gerrard’s power, aerial ability, two‑footed shooting, passing, ball control, stamina and leadership by example.
- He said Gerrard initially needed to sharpen his tactical tempo but developed that understanding over time, with the addition of Fernando Torres improving their on‑field partnership.
- The remarks come from an official Liverpool celebratory book and are likely to reinforce discussion of Gerrard’s legacy given Benitez’s track record of managing top European stars and winning the 2005 Champions League and 2006 FA Cup with him.