When you talk legends of the game, you talk Real Madrid. There is almost no football team in the world that has produced as many footballing icons as Madrid's Merengues. A club with a celebrated record of trophies and wins spanning two centuries, it stands to reason that it has done so with the finest players in the world at all times.
Every period at Real Madrid has created several legends, and fans have experienced their greatness on and off the pitch. From the vintage names of Di Stefano, Francisco Gento, Ferenc Puskas, Emilio Butragueno, and others to current era game changers like Raul, Iker Casillas, Cristiano Ronaldo, Sergio Ramos, Isco, and others. The list, like the club's achievements, never ends.
The association this club maintains with its icons after they leave is what makes it even more exquisite. There was much speculation about the alleged strained relationship between Real Madrid and Cristiano Ronaldo following his departure, but this was proven false time and again by the Portuguese legend's constant contact with the club's management, numerous returns to the stadium, and advice to newcomers such as Kylian Mbappe.
And this time again, a legend who played from the days of his young prominence till ripe age of a Ballon d'Or has hinted at something extraordinary.
Legend wants to return to Real Madrid one day
Karim Benzema, a Los Blancos icon, appeared in a recent interview with El Chiringuito reporter Edu Aguirre on the show "Los Amigos de Edu". The midfielder opened up to the creator about his childhood and how he arrived to Madrid, as well as his football career in the city.
During the conversation, the former star was asked about his relationship with Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, and Benzema was full of admiration for his boss. He discussed his interaction with Perez when he made the choice to depart.
"Florentino Perez was the first person I called when I decided to leave. He didn't quite understand, I told him that the young stars, Vinicius and Rodrygo, were ready."
Furthermore, he hinted of returning to Real Madrid after retirement. The player said:
"When I retire I want to be close to football. Close to Florentino Pérez. Yes, I would return to Real Madrid, why not?"
Karim Mostafa Benzema joined Real Madrid as a youngster in 2009 and has since become one of the club's most enduring superstars. His potential return after retirement would be greatly appreciated by both the club and the fans, and his footballing competencies would be extremely beneficial to the club's operations.
When questioned about a career as a manager, Benzema stated that he was unsure.
"Coaching seems more complicated than playing,"
In December 2020, another legend of the club, Iker Casillas was appointed the deputy to the CEO of Real Madrid Foundation, an organization within Real Madrid that supports community activities and gives aid to football and sports amongst children.
With Benzema's expected comeback, a similar or even better role cannot be denied. He will surely be a valuable asset to the club's administration and operations after his outstanding contribution on the field.