Grant, Benitez and Rijkaard face uncertain future

By Mike Collett

LONDON (Reuters) - Three of the four coaches who have guided their teams to the Champions League semi-finals might soon be out of a job even if they win the European Cup next month.

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson, whose team face Frank Rijkaard's Barcelona in Wednesday's semi-final first leg, is the only man sure to remain in his job next season whether or not his team reach or even win the May 21 final in Moscow.

For different reasons, the pressure on Rijkaard and on Chelsea's Avram Grant and Liverpool's Rafa Benitez, whose teams meet in the other semi-final, first leg on Tuesday, could prove too much.

In years gone by, reaching the last four of Europe's elite competition would be seen as a considerable achievement and defeat rarely regarded as out-and-out failure.

However, the demands on Europe's top coaches from their bosses, fans and the media are now so intense than not only is success demanded but, as Rijkaard in particular has found out, success with a certain style is required.

In Barcelona terms, the Dutch coach's 2006 Champions League victory over Arsenal in Paris is a long time ago.

WHISTLED OFF

Rijkaard has watched his side whistled off the pitch in their last two games at the Nou Camp after goalless draws against Getafe and city rivals Espanyol.