Real Madrid News
Benzema raring to go when Real Madrid face Osasuna: “I want to play on Sunday”
Kicking off the new season on fire with five goals in seven total matches, Karim Benzema’s positive start was brought to a halt after he suffered a knee injury against Celtic in a Champions League group stage tie.
Since then, the Frenchman has missed games against the likes of RCD Mallorca, RB Leipzig and Atletico Madrid, as Real Madrid have maintained their winning streak so far this season.
The club captain is nearing full recovery and returned to normal training with his teammates earlier today. And he has now expressed his desire to play against CA Osasuna this weekend.
“I’m pleased to be back with the team. It’s been some time and I’ve had time to do a pre-season. I’m feeling very good, comfortable. I want to play on Sunday”. he said speaking to the club’s official media.
The 34-year-old also gave an update on his fitness, and why the talismanic striker now believes he is fully ready to do what he does best.
“I have done a lot of physical work. I have not touched the ball. Today was my first training session. These days I did a lot of running and strength training inside the facilities. I also trained at home,” he said.
“I have done a lot of catching up because as I arrived late from the holidays, I have not had time to do a lot of pre-season.”
Ahead of a busy schedule in October, the veteran also emphasised how each and every game remains crucial, as every side has their sights set on pulling off an upset against the most in-form team in Europe.
“We have to continue. In our heads, we know that we have to win every game. Every game is important. Every team wants to beat Real Madrid, but we’re fine and ready to continue,” he insisted.
Discussing Los Merengues’ prospects in the 2022/23 campaign, he said: “I have seen the team very well, perfect. I have seen them full of victories, goals and character. We have a great team although it can be said that we have two teams.
“There is no difference between the people who start the game and those who enter with the game already started. I see the team very well.”
While Carlo Ancelotti’s side have adjusted perfectly to Benzema’s absence, he remains the side’s undeniable best player and biggest leader.
Just last season, not a soul can suggest that a single player in Europe outdid the legendary striker’s performances throughout the course of the term.
The hope remains that Benzema makes a return on the pitch against Osasuna and spearheads Real Madrid to yet another fruitful season.
Real Madrid have finally received some good news as MARCA confirms that Nacho has finally made his decision about his future, and is set to continue at the club for the foreseeable future.
His contract expires in the summer, and Real Madrid had tabled an extension for the player, which was not accepted by the Spaniard at the time. Now, however, he has decided to reject offers from Juventus, Inter Milan, Chelsea, Inter Milan, and AC Milan.
Nacho will sign a one year extension, with the option to extend for another year if both parties reach an agreement.
His continuity also means that he will be the new club captain for the 2023/24 season, since Karim Benzema is leaving the club on a free transfer in the summer. Luka Modric will be second captain, followed by Daniel Carvajal and Toni Kroos.
Carlo Ancelotti has also spoken to the player, confirming that they trust him for next season in the team, which has gone a long way in helping convince the player.
The Italian gaffer also spoke about the Spanish defender’s contract situation after the game against Athletic Club yesterday, saying:
“Asensio, Nacho and Ceballos? We have explained them their roles. The club have offered them renewals. Asensio has preferred to leave, Ceballos and Nacho are still thinking about it.”
While a centre-back by trade, Nacho has played across the defence for Madrid continuously, including putting shifts at left-back, right-back, and even centre-back.
His departure would have probably pushed Madrid to sign another defender, especially since they are considering selling Ferland Mendy if a good offer arrives.
Regardless of that, though, Madrid are moving to sign Alphonso Davies, and have already made initial contacts with the player. Bayern Munich have not rejected their advances.
Further, the los blancos management have already met with Davies’ entourage twice, cementing their interest in the Canadian ace.
