The messages have multiplied since the announcement of his departure from Real Madrid, this Sunday at midday. Karim Benzema, who is preparing, at 35, to end an adventure of fourteen seasons in Spain to probably join Saudi Arabia, was first greeted by the Madrid club through its statement. "Karim Benzema's career at Real Madrid has been an example of behaviour and professionalism, and has represented the values of our club. Karim Benzema has earned the right to decide his future. Madridistas and all fans around the world have enjoyed his magical and unique football, which has made him one of the great myths of our club and one of the great legends of world football. Real Madrid is and always will be his home, and we wish him and his family all the best in this new stage of his life."
This was followed by praise on social media. Thus, Vinicius Junior, his teammate published a long text: "Benzvini, Vinzema... And so on. The result has always been the same: goals, laughter, titles and, above all, learning. When the too shy boy from São Gonçalo arrived in Madrid in 2018, you were the first to greet me. I will never forget it. I grew up with you. We won in Spain, Europe and the world together. And I was able to applaud your Ballon d'Or with great pride. It's the end of this "dark duo" today, but I will always keep our videos as a source of inspiration and the memory of an unforgettable time. Karim, we will miss you very much. Thank you for any caption."
"Your beautiful story here at Real Madrid will be eternal"
Real and Les Bleus midfielder Eduardo Camavinga simply wrote: "The people will not forget, it was an honour. Legend. This term is also used by the defensive midfielder of the Merengues and the team of France Aurélien Tchouaméni. "Leyenda," he posted with a sad-faced emoji and another depicting a crown. Brazilian Rodrygo also paid his respects: "KB9!!! Thank you very much for all the moments we were able to live together! Thank you for every lesson, every goal, every assist, every title won together and even for the privilege of having participated in your Ballon d'Or." "Goodbye Captain!!! Pure magic," said central defender Nacho Fernández, while Eder Militao stressed: "Thank you Karim! Your beautiful story here at Real Madrid will be eternal. I will keep your advice, love and respect for me. »
The Spanish media also paid tribute to the French player. The daily AS published an editorial on its website by journalist Tomas Roncero who stressed: "Karim is leaving, a legend with museum goals." Mundo Deportivo retraced Benzema's career at Real under the title: "Del gato a leyenda" (from cat to legend). A nickname that had been given to him by coach Jose Mourinho during his passage from 2010 to 2013.