Madrid bets Benzema will stay in top form for another season

MADRID: When Karim Benzema went down in pain after getting hurt in a practice session during Real Madrid’s preseason tour in the United States, it was understandable why his teammates and the coaching staff appeared concerned. Madrid can’t afford to lose Benzema, who was the team’s best player last season and had a key role as the club won the Champions League and the Spanish league. To repeat their success, Madrid know they will need the 34-year-old France striker to perform at a high level for another season.

And the club bet he can do it — Madrid didn’t make any major additions to their attack. Thankfully for Madrid, it was just a knock that brought Benzema down in practice across the pond. He is set to be ready when Madrid begins its season this month.

“Benzema is in good shape,” Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said during the team’s preseason tour. “He is fine despite not having trained much. He came back well.

He’s fine but still needs to work on his fitness.” Benzema did not play in the friendly against Barcelona in Las Vegas a few weeks ago, when Madrid struggled offensively in a 1-0 loss. Benzema was back in the starting lineup against Mexican club América in San Francisco, playing well and scoring a goal in the 2-2 draw. He also scored once in the team’s 2-0 win over Juventus in Los Angeles.

“Benzema is the best player in the world, so we obviously lack something when he is not playing,” Ancelotti said. Madrid are hoping Benzema can perform at least close to how he did last season, when he led an attack that also included Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo. The trio helped the club score 80 goals in the Spanish league, 12 more than any other club.