Karim Benzema to Benfica? Jose Mourinho responds to Al-Ittihad star’s Europe transfer rumors

Jose Mourinho has finally broken his silence on the Karim Benzema transfer talks linking the Saudi player to Benfica. There were rumors early this year that the former Real Madrid striker wanted to leave Al-Ittihad; however, the Frenchman dismissed those rumors. So, will Benzema and Mourinho reunite again at Benfica?

Jose Mourinho responds to Karim Benzema to Benfica rumors

Benfica manager Mourinho has shut down the speculations which linked Benzema to his club and the striker’s return to Europe. This might be a huge upset for the European football fans however, the Ballon d’Or winner is happy in the Middle East and is unlikely to make any return. During a press conference following his appointment to the Portuguese club, Mourinho, denying the possibility of Benzema’s signing, said:

"It was the first time I heard his name and the hypothetical possibility.”

Mourinho added:

“The last thing on his horizon is a return to European football and, in this case, to a team like ours.”

The former Real Madrid manager further stated that when a player leaves “top-level European football, at this age, for Saudi Arabia, I don't think the goal is to return.”

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So, no “Here We Go” for Benzema to Benfica; at least for now. Mourinho has been a coach of the France international at Los Blancos. Benzema, who started his football career at hometown club Lyon in 2005 has netted 78 goals and provided 49 assists in 150 matches under the Portuguese football manager. The two spent three years together with the Spanish giants, winning La Liga, the Copa del Rey and the Supercopa de España, along with reaching three UEFA Champions League finals.

Back in March this year, the two reunited and shared a warm embrace in a touching moment as they watched Anthony Joshua beat Francis Ngannou in the showdown boxing match in Saudi Arabia. They were also seen exchanging conversation in that heartfelt view. Benzema played for the 15-time UCL Champions from 2009 until 2023 before the former La Liga star signed for Al-Ittihad.