Real Madrid manager, Carlo Ancelotti, has admitted Karim Benzema’s decision to leave the club took him by surprise, describing it as a ‘last-time’ choice.
Prior to Sunday’s final-day 1-1 LaLiga draw against Athletic Bilbao, Real Madrid announced their most decorated player and second-highest scorer of all-time would depart the Santiago Bernabeu this summer.
“His departure was a surprise for everyone, but you have to understand it. It was a last-minute decision,” Ancelotti said about Benzema’s exit in a press conference.
“Yesterday he trained normally and today he made this decision. We understand it. I spoke to him this morning and he said that he was leaving and I understood it. He has done very well with me in these four years and also at the club. For that all my thanks.
“He has thought it through and his decision is part of the transition of this club, which continues and will continue next year. We have time to think about what we have to do. We will have a competitive squad next year.”
Benzema scored in his final appearance with a 72nd-minute equalizing penalty, raising his Real Madrid tally to 354 goals in 648 games. He also dished out a further 165 assists in the Spanish capital.
The Frenchman, who joined the club in 2009 from Lyon for a €35 million fee, won 25 trophies. These include a staggering five Champions Leagues, four LaLiga titles, and three Copa del Rey trophies.
Meanwhile, Benzema will sign a two-year deal with Saudi Pro League champions Al-Ittihad, after confirming his exit from Real Madrid on Sunday.
The mercurial forward called time on his 14-year stint in the Spanish capital when Real announced his one-year extension clause in his contract would not be triggered. Now a free agent, The Guardian has revealed that the Frenchman will complete a move to Saudi outfit Al-Ittihad for two years, with the option of one extra.
The report continues that documents have been signed with the Saudi champions, who have moved quickly to land the 2022 Ballon d’Or winner as the Gulf state’s ambitious transfer plans get underway. Alongside Benzema, Al-Hilal are reportedly close to a world-record deal to land Lionel Messi, who is also available on a free, while up to seven other world superstars are being targeted by various other clubs.