Real Madrid Icon Hints at Stunning Comeback as Xabi Alonso Takes Charge

With his Al Ittihad contract nearing its end, Karim Benzema has acknowledged that a return to Real Madrid could happen if Florentino Pérez continues as club president.

Uncertainty clouds the 38-year-old forward's future as he enters the last year of his Al Ittihad agreement. While he has rejected speculation about retirement, Benzema's path forward remains unclear without a contract extension secured.

Rather than hastily signing a new agreement with the Saudi title holders, the French striker is exploring various possibilities, including a spectacular comeback to Real Madrid to reunite with former colleague Xabi Alonso.

"As long as Florentino remains, [a move] could happen. We maintain dialogue, and it's feasible," Benzema shared with AS. "I am a Madridista at heart. I carry that feeling within me. Madrid continues to be my home. I identify as both a Madridista and a Madrileño. Time will tell. If he stays there..."

The striker ranks among the greatest players to wear the famous white jersey for Los Blancos. During his 14-season tenure at Real Madrid, Benzema captured 25 honors, including five European Cup victories and four Spanish league championships, while claiming the Ballon d'Or in 2022.

He stands as the club's runner-up in all-time scoring with 354 strikes, trailing only Cristiano Ronaldo.

Benzema: Evaluating 'All Options' for Future Decision

Benzema disclosed he is engaged in discussions with several teams, emphasizing he has "opportunities across Europe." The attacker remained coy about whether Real Madrid represents one of these serious possibilities, but he isn't dismissing any potential transfer.

"I must evaluate all possibilities, make the right choice, determine where I'll be comfortable, while remembering that I'm content [at Al Ittihad] and enjoy tremendous support," Benzema explained.

"However, we'll wait and see. They have expectations of me and I deliver in return. It's a mutual relationship. But alternatives exist."

A return to Spain's capital for Benzema may appear far-fetched, yet Real Madrid's search for a genuine striker over the past 18 months is well-documented. The team lacks an authentic goal-scoring threat in the penalty area, someone capable of finishing crosses or positioning themselves to create scoring opportunities.

Whether Benzema's record of 46 goals across 75 matches for Al Ittihad will convince the Spanish powerhouse remains uncertain.