Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti admitted that Karim Benzema’s decision to leave Real Madrid this summer came as a ‘massive surprise for everyone,’ but insisted that his squad will be just as competitive next season as it has been in recent years.
The former France international confirmed that he will be leaving the Santiago Bernabeu in the coming weeks after a 14-year spell in the Spanish capital, during which time he lifted five Champions League trophies, four LaLiga titles and three Copa del Reys.
Benzema was given a standing ovation from the Madrid supporters as he was withdrawn deep into the second half of Los Blancos’ 1-1 draw with Athletic Club on Sunday evening, after slotting away a 72nd minute penalty to draw his side level.
After the Madrid fans and players paid tribute to Benzema as he made his way off the pitch, the ex-Milan, Juventus and Napoli coach Ancelotti gave his captain a warm hug before he took his seat in the dugout.
Speaking during his post-match press conference, Ancelotti confessed that it will be a difficult, albeit not impossible task to replace Benzema before the start of next season.
“Yes it was a surprise, it was a massive surprise for everyone, but we had to understand that he thought about it twice and this is part of a process that started at this club some years ago, a transition that will continue next season.”
He continued: “So, we have enough time to think about what we need to do (to replace Benzema) and the squad will be very competitive next season, I can assure you of that.