Former Liverpool and Inter Milan coach Rafael Benitez has revealed his reasons for turning down the chance to manage Sampdoria next season.

Samp, who were recently promoted to Serie A, were believed to be keen on filling their current vacancy with the 52-year-old.

However, following a series of discussions, Benitez has revealed that the Blues would have been unable to match his ambitions.

"We have had some offers, but it has to be the right offer. Sampdoria were very serious, very professional, and they have a project," he told Sky Sports News.

"Then we were talking about the project that they have and the idea that they have, and I felt they have just got promotion and want to stay in the first division. My idea is trying to find a club that can match my desire and my expectations to challenge for trophies.

"This time it was really good, I was really pleased they were thinking of me, but I am waiting for maybe another option."

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