Real Madrid considered a surprise operation in the summer transfer window – but in the end, nothing came of it.
In the weeks before the transfer window closed, the Madrid management explored the possibility of bringing back an old acquaintance: Ballon d’Or winner Karim Benzema. The 38-year-old French striker was considered as an option to bring experience and leadership to the squad at a time marked by many changes.
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But although the idea was thoroughly considered, it was never put into practice. When the window closed, Benzema was still without an offer from Madrid.
An old acquaintance – with a short way back
Benzema spent a whopping 14 seasons at Real Madrid before leaving the club in 2023. Had he returned, both sporting and institutional adaptation would have been unproblematic – he knows the dressing room, the club and the demands of La Liga and the Champions League inside out.
Madrid’s idea was to bring in an experienced profile who could follow up a squad that underwent major changes this summer. Benzema fit the description perfectly.
225 million euros were spent – but not on Benzema
Real Madrid ended up investing around €225 million in the summer transfer window – with Yan Diomande being the most expensive signing at €125 million.
In the end, the sports management considered that the squad was covered, and chose not to make any more reinforcements in the final phase of the window. Benzema was thus downgraded in favor of other positions and players with a more long-term term.
Benzema became a free agent – but too late
The situation was further complicated by Benzema’s own contract situation. He made a deal with Al Hilal on August 31 to end his contract, and thus became available as a free agent – but this happened almost at the same time as the main European leagues closed their windows.
When Madrid considered a return earlier this summer, Benzema was still tied to Saudi Arabia. Only when the window was closing did he become free – too late for a move to Spain.
Still relevant – and with the goals intact
Benzema has admittedly not given up. He has an offer to continue his career, and one of the options that has emerged lately is MLS – although he has not yet revealed his next destination.
His numbers from Arabia speak for themselves: 38 goals in the national league for Al Ittihad, followed by 10 goals in 12 games for Al Hilal. It’s a production that explains why Real Madrid even considered a return.
But for Madrid, it wasn’t about building the team around Benzema – just bringing in experience and an extra option in critical moments.
The future: MLS or a new adventure?
Real Madrid have now shelved plans for a Benzema return and start the season with the squad they already have. Benzema, on the other hand, is free to sign for a new club as a free agent – and his immediate future will be determined by what offers he chooses to consider in the weeks to come.
MLS could be a possibility, but for now, everything is open for the 38-year-old goal guarantee.
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