The information has circulated with insistence in recent days: José Mourinho, freshly appointed to the head of Benfica, would dream of bringing Karim Benzema. The idea of reforming the duo that made the heyday of Real Madrid has something to seduce. We can already imagine the reunion, the complicity, and the impact of a golden ball in the Portuguese championship. But does this beautiful story have the slightest chance of materializing?
A return to Europe? Not on the agenda for Benzema
To look more closely, this rumor has everything fantasy. Because all the signals sent by Karim Benzema and his entourage go in the opposite direction. First, there is the financial aspect. With a contract at more than 100 million euros per year in Saudi Arabia, it is difficult to see how Benfica could line up, even if the French accepted a drastic drop in his salary.
Then there is the sportsman. After a difficult first season season, Benzema has regained its best level under the orders of Laurent Blanc. Last season, he was voted best player in the championship, leading his Al-Ittihad club to the double championship with 25 goals all competitions. Far from being on the decline, he even seems to find a second youth in the Gulf.
“I don't give up as long as I don't reach my goals”
The reports of the player himself are unequivocal.
“I said I was going to win in Saudi Arabia”, He said last August. “I am someone who does not give up until I do not reach my goals. »» His club, Al-Ittihad, even wishes to extend it until 2027. The project is long term, and Benzema seems completely involved.
Add to that his personal attachment to the country, and you will understand that the probability of seeing him come back to Europe is close to zero. Rumor Benzema-Benfica is a great story to make supporters dream during the transfer window. But the truth is that the future of the Golden Ball 2022 is written, and should end, under the Sun of Saudi Arabia.
