Benitez has struggled in the race for domestic titles during his time at Liverpool, but managed to win the Champions League in 2005 and reached the final again in 2007.
“I don’t think the messages about our performance have been as positive as they could have been,” said Benitez.
“But when you look at what we have done in reaching two finals and a semi, it means a lot of credit for the players, a lot of memories for the club and a lot of money too.
“We’ve generated money that can be spent on players and that has allowed us to progress every season in my time here.
“I know we could do better and also that we still have some improvement to make in the league but perhaps we deserve some credit for our success in Europe.
“We’re very proud of being the best club in Europe over the past five years.
“In the league you need more consistency for nine months. We know we have the quality to compete in Europe, to beat anyone, but maybe not the depth for the league.”
