Why Karim Benzema’s contract extension would be great for Real Madrid
A report from ESPN suggests that Karim Benzema is considering a two-year contract extension offer from Real Madrid with a substantial salary increase.
The Frenchman is in the form of his life after the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo in 2018 and has spearheaded Real Madrid’s attack in the Portuguese’s absence.
The 31-year-old striker made a move from Lyon to Spain over a decade ago and has been a key player for Los Blancos since then. Despite giving his best in the royal white colours, he had his fair share of criticism when he had a career-low 5 league goals in the 2017/18 season.
He had already signed a contract, two years ago, which would keep him in Madrid till 2021. Now, Real Madrid want to extend that to 2023, in recognition of his status as a key member of the team.
With an increase in salary, he would earn close to the clubs top earners, Sergio Ramos and Gareth Bale, according to ESPN. This decision from Real Madrid would prove to be immense for both, themselves and Benzema.
Since his arrival at the club, he has made 482 appearances and has scored 236 times in the process, while providing 129 assists as well.
After Cristiano Ronaldo left, the onus was left on the striker to lead the team in the attack. His experience was vital and he has remarkably stepped out of Ronaldo’s shadows. He rediscovered his goalscoring touch last season and netted 21 times in La Liga.
This season, he has already scored 10 goals in 12 games, which has put him on top of the goalscoring charts.
At Real Madrid, Benzema has always given his best and has been unselfish. He seems to be the key link for the attackers and has helped Hazard and Rodrygo a lot. Known for his link-up plays, he has also set up 3 goals for his teammates so far.
When Real Madrid bought Luka Jovic in the summer for £53.2m from Eintracht Frankfurt, Benzema’s position was under threat. Zidane, who came for a second stint, backed him up and the striker has surpassed all expectations and looks to be lethal in front of goal.
Benzema, soon to be 32, has found his form and looks to offer a lot more for Los Blancos. His numbers have soared to the top as the years pass by and that’s why Real Madrid must extend his contract.
Zidane’s most trusted man also has a very good back-up in Luka Jovic and therefore, Real Madrid would not have to look for another striker for a few years as long as Benzema continues at the club. He has been a faithful servant for the Spanish giants.
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Verdict
Benzema has by far been Real Madrid’s best player this season and his knack of scoring goals would be helpful in various ways. They are also on level terms with Barcelona in the league and the Frenchman’s contribution would be vital in their chase for the title.
He is earning lesser than most of the players in the squad and therefore, an increase in salary with the contract extension would be a right justification by the club since he has been a core member of their successful title-winning campaigns.