"I'm really happy with our board and scouting department who've worked really hard to make the signings this summer," said Benitez.
"We know we don't have big money, but the chairman and Rick Parry have worked extremely well to bring the best players we can into the team.
"Pako Ayesteran and I were talking about how strong our squad is compared to other teams. We think we have a lot of new players now who can really play.
"It's one thing to spend big money on players who don't do a job, but another when you spend it on quality players.
"With Pennant, Bellamy, Kuyt, Aurelio, Paletta and Gonzalez, we know we have spent money on those we will use, can play well, and have talent.
"In the case of Bellamy and Pennant, people talk about risk, but there is no question mark about their talent or adaptation into the team.
"I see two players for us in each position now. For sure we can improve, and we will continue to try to do so, but we have also signed young players who will stay here for many years.
"It would have been impossible for us to play against Chelsea without Gerrard, Xabi and Hyypia when we first arrived.
"In the first season, there were games we could not manage because we didn't have the players. We had young lads on the bench.
"In the second year we changed this, and now it will be different again with more pace and quality.
"We have good enough players on the pitch and on the bench and you will see a different style of play because we have a different style of player."