Carlo Ancelotti was taken aback by Karim Benzema’s decision to leave Real Madrid this summer
‘It was a surprise’: Carlo Ancelotti reveals he was surprised by Karim Benzema’s decision to leave Real Madrid this summer – and insists the club has ‘started a transition’ as they hunt for a new star striker
Carlo Ancelotti said he was surprised to see Karim Benzema leave Real Madrid at this point.
The long-serving player announced his departure from the club on Sunday, with rumors of a major move to Saudi Arabia being widely touted.
The French striker scored a penalty in his last game for Real Madrid before receiving a rapturous standing ovation as he was substituted.
The match at Berbabeu ended 1–1 with Atletic Bilbao holding the hosts to a draw despite Benzema’s 354th goal for Real Madrid.
Real Madrid manager Ancelotti said he was shocked by Benzema’s departure from the club.
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti said he was surprised to see Karim Benzema leave the club
The French striker is expected to sign a big money contract to play for Saudi side Al-Ittihad
Benzema got a great farewell from the home fans on his last appearance at the Bernabeu
He said, “It was a surprise, he thought it through. His decision is part of a process for this club that has started a transition, we have time to think about what to do.’
Ancelotti also revealed that they were not informed of Benzema’s decision until Sunday morning, following an early training session ahead of the afternoon’s kick-off, but would now be on the hunt for a replacement striker.
It was Benzema’s 31st goal of the season.
Real Madrid kept second place in the LaLiga table, as Atletico Madrid missed out on the chance to beat them on the final day, as they also drew.
The Ballon d’Or winner will reportedly join Saudi Arabian side Al-Ittihad on a two-year contract worth around £345 million. The club recently won the Saudi Pro League led by Nuno Espirito Santo.
