Real Madrid vice president Eduardo Fernandez de Blas has revealed that Rafael Benitez will become the club's new manager "as of next week".

Benitez has been the firm favourite to take the reins at the Bernabeu since Carlo Ancelotti was relieved of his duties last week.

There has not yet been any official word from Real, but Fernandez de Blas has seemingly confirmed that the current Napoli boss will take charge next week.

"I'll tell you one thing. Just one thing. Carlo Ancelotti is a real phenomenon. We give our thanks to him," the vice president said at a club event.

"Until three days ago, he was the best coach in the world, as was Jose Mourinho two years ago, and so will Rafa Benitez as of next week."

Benitez confirmed last week that he will leave his post with Napoli at the end of the season.