The idea has something to dream. José Mourinho, freshly arrived on the bench of Benfica, would dream of bringing his former protégé from Real Madrid, Karim Benzema. The foot call was there, subtle but very real. Would the two men, whose relationship has oscillated between conflict and mutual admiration, find themselves for a last lap? The French striker, exiled golden in Saudi Arabia, heard the message.
Benzema says “yes” to Mourinho, but under conditions
And his answer is positive. According to the latest information from Italy, Karim Benzema is ready to consider a return to Europe. Better, he would be willing to “Reduce its wage requirements to make the transfer possible”. An unexpected opening, which gives body to what was initially just rumor. The Ballon d'Or 2022 would not intend to extend its contract with Al-Ittihad, which runs until 2026, and would see a good eye a return to the Champions League before hanging up the crampons.
It is not a ” Yes “ Frank and massive, but it is a strong signal. He shows that the call of his old mentor, the one who had nicknamed him “The cat” Before making a
“Killer”did not leave it indifferent.
Benzema's bet: a return to Europe with Mourinho
A still complex file
Of course, the path is still long. Al-Ittihad will not let his star leave easily and would ask at least 7 to 8 million euros to start discussing. And even with a reduced salary, Benzema's emoluments would remain a major obstacle for Benfica's finances. The Portuguese club must also manage the situation of its current scorer, Vangelis Pavlidis, in full swing.
But the desire is there, on both sides. Mourinho knows that a player in Benzema's caliber could “Transform Benfica” on the European scene. Benzema knows that a last challenge under the orders of the “Special One” would have a look. The file is complex, but it has the merit of existing. And in football, when the will is shared, everything becomes possible.
