Ancelotti finally breaks silence on Benzema's future

The 38th and final Sunday of La Liga draws near, as Real Madrid prepare to face off against Athletic Bilbao, who are fighting for the final spot in Europe. In a press conference ahead of the game, coach Carlo Ancelotti was hardly asked about the match itself, although he stated that the club "wanted to finish second". Even if it wasn't the goal of their season, the Italian still wants a "good finish". Only Mariano will be out of action for the clash.

The main reason Madrid has been making headlines over the last few days is due to the rumours surrounding the future of striker, Karim Benzema. There were many reports that he would be leaving the Spanish side at the end of the season to go and play in Saudi Arabia, but in a press conference of his own, the star responded to these claims, stating "What's on the internet is not reality".

Asked about this comment, his manager responded, "Benzema's right, reality isn't what's on the internet". He continued: "If (I think) Benzema should retire at Madrid? Yes, I still do.... But players can have other mentalities, like having longer careers, playing more... but I maintain: that's what I think and that's what the club thinks. He is ready and has one year left on his contract. We have no doubts". 

Ancelotti was also asked about the potential arrival of a new '9' to the Santiago Bernabeu, in the form of Harry Kane. "He's a great player, you have to respect his club, Tottenham", was the coach's cryptic answer.

The Italian did seem amused by the lack of questions about the match, saying "I get the impression that you are more interested in what will happen next season" - which definitely seems to be the case.

 

June 3, 2023