How Benzema’s move to Manchester United was hijacked

Reports indicate that Al Ittihad striker Karim Benzema, who had previously rejected an approach from Manchester United, is now being pursued by the Premier League club for a potential six-month loan deal, as revealed by journalist Javier Parra Pena over the weekend.

Benzema left Real Madrid last summer after an illustrious 14-year career, with the Frenchman making a substantial impact at Al Ittihad, scoring 15 goals in 24 appearances.

However, recent developments suggest that the French striker may be on thin ice with manager Marcelo Gallardo due to missed training sessions on either side of the winter break.

According to sources, United is closely monitoring the situation, with a keen interest in securing Benzema’s services in the January transfer window. The 2022 Ballon d’Or winner is reportedly considering a return to European football.

Interestingly, it’s worth noting that Benzema had rejected an offer from Manchester United in the past, opting to join Real Madrid in 2009 despite the English club’s higher transfer fee offer.

Former Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas revealed that both Manchester United and Real Madrid had made bids for Benzema, with the Frenchman expressing his dream to play for the Spanish giants.

Aulas, displaying trust in the player, accepted Real Madrid’s ‘inferior’ offer to allow Benzema to fulfill his ambition.

Benzema went on to enjoy a highly successful stint at Real Madrid, winning 24 trophies, including four La Liga championships, three Copa del Reys, and five Champions League titles.

He played a crucial role alongside Cristiano Ronaldo before stepping into the spotlight as a key figure at the club following Ronaldo’s departure.

Now, it remains to be seen if Karim Benzema will make it up to a club he once rejected by making a U-turn to Old Trafford.