Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has dispelled rumors surrounding the return of Karim Benzema, asserting that the reports are unfounded.
The 36-year-old striker, a revered figure at Los Banos, departed the club last summer after an illustrious 14-season tenure, during which he notched over 350 goals and earned numerous accolades, including multiple La Liga and UEFA Champions League titles, along with the 2022 Ballon d’Or.
Despite Benzema’s move to Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad in the summer, recent speculation suggests he is unsettled and longing for a return to the Santiago Bernabéu. However, Ancelotti has clarified that he has not discussed Benzema’s potential return with the club’s hierarchy, dismissing the reports as false.
The French striker’s tenure at Al-Ittihad has been somewhat underwhelming, with just 15 goals in 24 appearances across competitions. His purported dissatisfaction with life in Saudi Arabia has led to links with Premier League giants Manchester United and Chelsea.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid continues to enjoy a successful season under Ancelotti’s guidance, currently sitting second in the La Liga standings, just one point behind surprise leaders Girona. They recently clinched the Supercopa Espana title, triumphing over Barcelona in the final.
Although their Copa del Rey campaign ended in disappointment with a quarterfinal defeat to Atlético Madrid, Los Blancos remain contenders in the UEFA Champions League, gearing up to face RB Leipzig in the Round of 16.
