Carlo Ancelotti has addressed rumours of a bust-up between himself and Karim Benzema, stating that there are no issues between the pair.
The French forward was substituted after 71 minutes in Real Madrid’s recent Champions League victory against Chelsea, leaving the pitch with the score still at 1-0, and he appeared displeased with the decision.
Ancelotti clarified that Benzema was suffering from discomfort in his foot, despite the player believing he was fit enough to continue. The Italian dismissed suggestions that Benzema was angry with him for the substitution.
“Karim is fine, he had this knock and I took him off him because when I think the game is over I think about giving him a little more rest like Kroos and Modric,” he told reporters.
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Ancelotti also stated that he had explained to Benzema that he would take minutes off him if necessary, and that it didn’t make sense for him to continue playing, even with minor discomfort.
“The important thing is to explain it, I have spoken with him that if I can take minutes from him I will do it,” he continued. “It didn’t make sense for him to continue with that little problem and the game decided. He understood it perfectly.”
Fitness problems have plagued Benzema all season. The 35-year-old, who is the only senior striker in Ancelotti’s squad, has been limited to just 19 appearances in La Liga, missing time due to six separate injuries.
On his day, however, Benzema remains one of the game’s top strikers and reports in Spain state that the veteran forward has seen his contract with Real extended by one year, tying him to the club until 2024.
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