But his performances have yet to convince Spain manager Luis Aragones, who has a plethora of world-class goalkeepers at his disposal, including Real Madrid's Iker Casillas, Valencia's Santiago Canizares and Liverpool's Pepe Reina.

BBC: Almunia open to England call-up

Former Valencia coach Benitez had been linked with Real Madrid and Juventus in recent months, but with both those clubs now having new men in charge he could be in the running to fill the vacant position at European champions Inter Milan following the departure of Jose Mourinho.

BBC: Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez leaves by mutual consent

Real Madrid beat Valencia in 2000, AC Milan defeated Juventus in 2003 and Manchester United edged Chelsea in 2008.

NPR: Bayern Munich-Dortmund In All-German Champs Final