The impossible comeback… that no longer feels so impossible

At 38 years old, Karim Benzema insists he still has the legs to compete at the highest level. The Al Ittihad striker gave an extensive interview to AS, where he discussed his future, his present in Saudi Arabia, and above all, his eternal connection with Real Madrid.

And there he dropped a phrase that shook Madrid:

“If Florentino is still there, it could happen.”

The Frenchman made it clear that the only condition for a return to the Bernabéu would be the continuity of Florentino Pérez, whom he considers a unique figure in his career.

“He’s someone I can never say no to. Florentino is special,” he admitted.

Benzema repeated several times that he feels like a Madridista “at heart,” that Madrid “is still my city,” and that his story with the club is not fully closed. His message wasn’t just a comment—it was an open door.

The message for Vinicius: Ballon d’Or talent, but with a key adjustment

In the interview, Benzema also spoke about Vinicius Junior, whom he still views as a future Ballon d’Or winner… but only if he makes one important change in his career.

“He can win it. He has the quality and he’s in the best place to do it.

It will happen the day he understands he’s on the pitch only to play and leaves everything else aside.”

The former Real Madrid captain explained that the pressure on Vinicius is excessive and that his competitive character is often misinterpreted. But he defended him fully:

“That’s his personality. He gets upset when he’s substituted—normal. He makes gestures, but it’s nothing. People need to know him.”

For Benzema, Vinicius isn’t “doing badly” as some claim. On the contrary—he’s doing very well, although he still has room to grow.

Florentino, Vinicius and an open future

Benzema’s next move remains uncertain, but the Frenchman made one thing clear: his bond with Real Madrid is still intact.

If Florentino Pérez continues as president, a potential return stops being fantasy and becomes a real possibility.
Meanwhile, his message for Vinicius sounds like advice from an older brother:

the talent is already there—now it’s time to take the mental leap toward the Ballon d’Or.