Benzema Eyes Stunning Real Madrid Return Amid Al-Ittihad Uncertainty

Karim Benzema Sets Sights on Real Madrid Return

Karim Benzema, the legendary French striker, has once again ignited speculation about a potential Real Madrid return. After leaving the Spanish giants in the summer of 2023 to join Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad, Benzema’s recent comments have thrown his future into the spotlight. The veteran forward, who spent 14 illustrious years at the Santiago Bernabeu, openly admitted that he “can never say no” to Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, hinting that a comeback could be on the cards.

Benzema’s Impact at Al-Ittihad

Since his high-profile move to Al-Ittihad, Benzema has continued to demonstrate his world-class abilities. The Frenchman signed a three-year contract and quickly established himself as a talisman for the Saudi Pro League side. In his debut season, Benzema scored 25 goals across all competitions, spearheading Al-Ittihad to a memorable domestic double—clinching both the Saudi Pro League and the King’s Cup. Over 75 games, he has netted 46 goals, mirroring the prolific form that defined his final seasons in Madrid.

His arrival has not only elevated Al-Ittihad but also helped raise the profile of Saudi football on the global stage. Yet with only seven months left on his contract, rumors swirl about where Benzema will play next season.

Karim Benzema Open to Real Madrid Return

In a revealing interview with Spanish outlet AS, Benzema was candid about his bond with Real Madrid and club president Florentino Perez. When asked if he could imagine a return to Los Blancos, Benzema replied, “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 Madrileño. We’ll see what happens. If he’s there…”

Benzema underlined his lifelong connection with the club, adding, “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 Legendary Status at Real Madrid

Benzema joined Real Madrid from Lyon in 2009 and went on to become one of the most decorated footballers in the club’s history. During his 14 years in Madrid, he amassed 25 major trophies, including five UEFA Champions League titles and four La Liga crowns. He ranks fifth in all-time Real Madrid appearances (648 matches) and is the highest-appearing non-Spanish player for the club.

With 354 goals to his name, Benzema is the second-highest scorer in Real Madrid history and leads the club in all-time assists with 165. His crowning individual achievement came in 2022, when he was awarded the Ballon d’Or, cementing his status as a true legend of the game.

Uncertain Future at Al-Ittihad

Benzema’s contract with Al-Ittihad is set to expire at the end of the current season, and discussions about an extension have yet to materialize. The striker, who will turn 38 in December, remains noncommittal about his next steps but insists he plans to continue playing for at least two more years.

“For the moment, I’m very happy here; they show me a lot of affection. Players, fans, coach, people who work here… I watch Real Madrid matches. I watch the Champions League and imagine what’s next. The Champions League is magical. 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. I like to talk face-to-face and see what they think.”

Benzema also revealed that a return to Europe is not off the table: “The best thing for me is to continue here, but also not just stay for the sake of staying for a year or two. I can’t do that. I think the level of football in the Saudi league is getting better and better. I’ve been here for three years now, and it keeps getting better and better. 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.”

For more news, visit for more news.

Opinion: Benzema’s Next Move Carries Weight for Real Madrid Legacy

Considering Benzema’s enduring form and deep emotional ties to Real Madrid, a return to the Bernabeu would be a fitting chapter to a remarkable career. While his leadership has been crucial for Al-Ittihad and the development of Saudi football, the lure of home and the chance to inspire a new generation at Madrid may prove irresistible. If the stars align, Benzema could further cement his legendary status with one last dance in the white of Real Madrid.