He says he didn't expect it. Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti admitted that Karim Benzema's decision made official at midday Sunday to leave the Madrid club after 14 years, had been "a surprise for all of us", while ensuring that he respected the decision of "one of the best players in the world".
"It was a surprise to all of us. He came to see me this (Sunday) morning to tell me that he had made this decision and I told him that I respected this decision, "said Ancelotti in a press conference after the draw of his team (1-1) against Athletic Bilbao for the last match of "KB9" in the Madrid jersey. A match where the French striker scored his last goal with Real Madrid, on penalty.
"We have to thank him for what he has achieved for this club"
"He has earned the right to decide what he wants to do, you just have to thank him for everything he has achieved for this club. It is legendary, unforgettable, it will remain in the history of this club, "continued the Italian technician to pay tribute to him, as earlier in the day many teammates of the interested party.
"I am aware that I have managed one of the best players in the world, a complete player, a good person, very humble, very serious. We can't be happy that he leaves us, but we have to respect his decision," Ancelotti concluded. Benzema, 35, was nearing the end of his contract with Real Madrid, with whom he won 25 trophies, including five Champions Leagues.
The 2022 Ballon d'Or is actively coveted by a Saudi club, Al-Ittihad. According to state TV channel Al-Ekhbariya, the latter has reached an "official" agreement to sign him to a "record" contract of two seasons.
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