Karim Benzema breaks silence on future plans, and Real Madrid’s new era under Mbappe and Xabi Alonso

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·17 novembre 2025

Karim Benzema breaks silence on future plans, and Real Madrid’s new era under Mbappe and Xabi Alonso

The French-Algerian striker reflects on his next steps and his admiration for Mbappe

Karim Benzema breaks silence on future plans, and Real Madrid’s new era under Mbappe and Xabi Alonso

OneFootball Video

Karim Benzema opened up about his future confirming that he has not yet decided whether he will continue with Al Ittihad or pursue one of several offers from Europe.

In interview with AS, the former Real Madrid legend also addressed the form of Kylian Mbappe, the attacking structure at the Bernabeu & his view on manager Xabi Alonso.

Benzema admitted that his future is open though he emphasised how settled he feels at Al Ittihad:

"I’m very happy here. I receive lot of affection from the players, fans, coach and staff"

With his contract approaching expiry, the striker made it clear he will not stay unless the project motivates him:

"I see myself playing for two more year. I’m physically good, I work hard and I enjoy football. I won’t stay just for the sake of staying. I prefer to speak face to face with the club and understand their view"..

Benzema confirmed European clubs have approached him:

"I have offers from Europe, yes but I must study everything and choose wisely"

🚨 Karim Benzema: “Mbappé this season? He’s much better, scoring goals is not new for him. He’s going to score goals, many more. There’ll be matches where Mbappé won’t even touch the ball. What we expect from Kylian is that when he gets one chance, he puts it away. That’s how
– lunedì 17 novembre 2025

On Mbappe: "Madrid need him in the big moments"

Benzema had strong praise for Real Madrid’s superstar:

"Mbappe is even better now. Scoring goals is not new for him. At Real Madrid he’ll score more but there will be games he barely touches the ball. What matters is that when the chance comes, he finishes it"

He added that Madrid rely heavily on Mbappe in matches against compact defensive blocks such as Atletico Madrid or Liverpool:

"Madrid need him in those moments. He cannot do it alone — he needs Vinicius, Rodrygo & others"

What the attack must look like?

Benzema believes responsibility must be shared:

Mbappe (the finisher)
Vinicius (direct threat & space creation)
Rodrygo (balance in rotations)
Bellingham (link play)

On Xabi Alonso: "His style is the same as when we played together".

Benzema praised the early work of the Madrid coach:

"I remember playing alongside him. Now as coach it’s the same: pressure, vertical passing .. a style I like. He has only been there six month and is doing very well. He needs time"..