Without a league title in 20 years and any trophy in the last four, Liverpool were expected to challenge for the Premier League this season and contend with Europe's Champions League elite.
Reality for the 18-times league champions is a likely seventh-place finish and Europa League football next season - a competition they failed to win this year having suffered early Champions League elimination.
Over 100 players have passed through Anfield's revolving door during the Spaniard's six-year tenure with a reported 230 million pounds spent.
"I have had massive offers over the last year and I decided to stay because of the fans," Benitez said recently.
"The fans are the main thing, the best thing, that the club has. For one year, I have been working very hard, trying to do my best, and we will see what happens in the future."
"His CV speaks for itself. He gives the impression of being a coach who can handle difficult situations, managerial situations," Buffon told Italy's Sky TV.
Liverpool's dilemma is that the close season may not be long enough to address a list of problems in time for a new campaign with Champions League soccer a minimum aim.
The club's sale, being overseen by new chairman Martin Broughton, could delay the four or five top class signings Benitez believes are necessary for improvement.
On Thursday, Hicks said it could take up to two years for any sale to complete, ending critical fans' hopes of a swift exit and a strong transfer kitty courtesy of new owners.
Benitez's situation is somewhat unique. The Spaniard reportedly has four years remaining on his contract and Liverpool are unlikely to sanction a costly release by sacking him. Likewise any interested parties can expect to pay a big fee for his services.
