Benzema Real Madrid Return Hinted as Striker Opens Door
Karim Benzema Real Madrid return speculation has intensified as the legendary French striker recently admitted his future at Al-Ittihad is uncertain and suggested a Santiago Bernabeu comeback “could happen”. The 37-year-old’s candid remarks have reignited hopes among Los Blancos fans that their former talisman might don the famous white shirt once more before retiring.
Karim Benzema Real Madrid Return: Is a Reunion on the Cards?
Benzema, who left Real Madrid in the summer of 2023 after a spectacular 14-year spell, has thrived at Al-Ittihad in the Saudi Pro League. Despite his success—netting 46 goals in 75 appearances and leading the Tigers to a domestic double—the Frenchman’s future is up for debate as his three-year contract approaches its final seven months. In an interview with Spanish outlet AS, Benzema did not rule out returning to the Spanish giants, especially if club president Florentino Perez remains at the helm.
Benzema’s Loyalty to Real Madrid Remains Strong
When asked about a potential Real Madrid call, Benzema was unequivocal: “Why? (Laughs). He’s someone I can never say no to. Florentino is special. If Florentino is still there, it could happen, it could happen. I talk to him and it’s possible. I’m a Real Madrid fan. I feel it in my soul. Madrid is still my city, I feel like a Real Madrid fan and a Madrileno. We’ll see what happens. If he’s there…”
Benzema’s continued affection for the club is clear. “It will always be my team. I still watch the games whenever I can. It’s the best club in the world. It always has been and it always will be. It’s a team with a lot of potential that I think can do more than it’s doing right now.”
Benzema’s Legacy at Real Madrid
During his illustrious 14-year tenure at Real Madrid, Benzema carved out a place among the all-time greats. Signed from Lyon in 2009, he played 648 games—the most for any non-Spanish player in club history—and netted 354 goals, making him Madrid’s second-highest scorer. His 165 assists remain unmatched. Benzema lifted 25 trophies, including five Champions League and four La Liga titles, culminating with the Ballon d’Or in 2022.
Al-Ittihad Success and Uncertain Future
Since his European departure, Benzema has been one of the faces of Saudi Arabian football’s renaissance. Last season, his 25 goals powered Al-Ittihad to victory in both the Saudi Pro League and the King’s Cup. Now, with his contract winding down and no extension confirmed, discussions about his next move have intensified.
Speaking about his future, Benzema stated, “For the moment, I’m very happy here; they show me a lot of affection. Players, fans, coach, people who work here… My contract here is nearing its end, that’s true. I still can’t say whether I’ll stay or leave; it depends on many things. I’ll be 38 in December. I see myself playing football for another two years. Physically, I’m fine, I work hard, and I’m playing football. I love football; I enjoy it. We’ll see what happens, what the club thinks.”
Could a Return to Europe Be Next?
Benzema revealed that he is not short on options: “It’s true that I have offers from Europe. I have to look at everything, choose wisely, and see where I feel comfortable, without forgetting that I feel good here and receive affection from everyone. But we’ll see. They ask me for things, and I give them things. Everything’s fifty-fifty, but there are things happening. I’m not going to quit football and stop competing in six months.”
Karim Benzema Real Madrid Return Would Be Historic
A Benzema Real Madrid return would not only delight fans but also add another chapter to the storied career of a player who remains deeply connected to the club. While nothing is finalized, his openness to a reunion—especially under Perez—keeps the possibility alive.
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Opinion: A Potentially Poetic Finale
Karim Benzema’s legacy at Real Madrid is secure, but a return would offer a fitting final act for both the player and the club. With his enduring quality and deep affection for Los Blancos, seeing Benzema back at the Bernabeu could be a storybook ending to a remarkable career. If Florentino Perez and the club open the door, fans worldwide may witness one of football’s most emotional homecomings.
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