REAL MADRID: PÉREZ CONFIRMS BENZEMA STAY AS BENÍTEZ SETS 25-GOAL TARGET
Karim Benzema will not be leaving Real Madrid this summer, according to club president Florentino Pérez, who has moved to shut down transfer speculation linking the French striker with a high-profile move to Arsenal.
Recent reports had suggested that the Gunners had submitted a €60 million offer for the former Olympique Lyonnais star, fuelling rumours of a potential exit. However, speaking publicly, Pérez made it clear that Benzema remains a key part of the club’s plans.
Backing up the president’s stance, Real Madrid manager Rafael Benítez also expressed full confidence in the Algerian-born French international, and revealed he has set personal targets for the striker this season.
“I am convinced that Benzema is a great striker. That’s why I set him the goal of 25 goals—to motivate him and to show it,” Benítez said during a press conference, as quoted by AFP.
The Spanish coach dismissed the need to sign another centre-forward, highlighting the attacking depth already at the club’s disposal.
“We have Cristiano Ronaldo, we have Jesé, who showed he can be a good alternative in pre-season, we have Borja Mayoral coming up from the reserves, and many other attacking players. At the moment, we are not looking for a number 9.”
Benzema, who has been a regular starter since joining the Merengues in 2009, continues to enjoy the full backing of both the club hierarchy and his manager. With the pressure now on to deliver in front of goal, the 27-year-old will be expected to play a central role in Real Madrid’s pursuit of silverware this season.
