Benzema: I won’t fall out with Mbappe
FT Desk
- 29 May 2022 18:50 BST
- 3 min read
Karim Benzema insists that his relationship with Kylian Mbappe won’t be affected after the PSG attacker’s shock decision to reject Real Madrid.
The duo have enjoyed a fantastic relationship both on and off the pitch, ever since Benzema returned to the France national team fold prior to Euro 2020.
They gelled brilliantly in attack as France won the UEFA Nations League last year and both have regularly spoken publicly over how well they get on with each other.
This bromance was about to reach new heights with Mbappe seemingly certain to join Real Madrid on a free transfer this summer.
But in a shock turnaround, Mbappe signed a three-year extension with PSG last week.
This has infuriated everyone associated with Real Madrid, including Benzema reportedly.
But the veteran striker insists that his relationship with Mbappe won’t be affected.
What did Benzema say?
“I would have liked him to be able to fulfil his dream of playing for Real Madrid, being together,” Benzema told TF1.
“He chose PSG, we must respect him.
“It is his choice, he has many responsibilities. We will enjoy playing together in the national team. Everyone makes their own decisions.
“Real Madrid is Real Madrid, I am not disappointed. We are good friends, it will not affect our relationship.”
Benzema’s social media activity last week led to claims that he had been passively aggressively criticising Mbappe.
First of all, Mbappe posted an image on Instagram of his hand pointing to the Real Madrid crest.
And then, more chillingly, he posted an image of the legendary late rapper Tupac.
📸 Karim Benzema is not happy with Kylian Mbappe after posting a picture on Instagram of Tupac & the friend that betrayed him. pic.twitter.com/GtFnR4dxtg
— TFS - Top Football Show (@TopFootballShow) May 21, 2022
In the background of the image is a friend of Tupac who has been alleged to have betrayed the rapper in the lead-up to his death in 1996.
But Benzema denied the claims that this post had any connection with Mbappe.
Mbappe himself also stated a few days ago that he would speak to Benzema and explain why he decided to reject Real Madrid.
“Yes, yes, and I saw several Real Madrid players publishing things. I have nothing to say,” Mbappe told Marca.
“Of course, when I go to the French national team, I will explain to Karim why I stayed at PSG because we have a good relationship.”
It was a good week for Benzema, anyhow, as he claimed another Champions League on Saturday as Real Madrid beat Liverpool 1-0 at the Stade de France in Paris.
