‘I will have our videos as inspiration and memories of an unforgettable moment’: Vinicius Jnr leads tributes as Real Madrid stars past and present react to the club’s announcement that Karim Benzema will leave the Santiago Bernabeu this summer
Karim Benzema’s past and present teammates took to social media to react to the news of the French international’s departure.
The 35-year-old has announced his decision to leave the Spanish giants at the end of the season and has been heavily linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League.
Madrid have revealed the club are set to pay their respects and farewell to their captain in the city on Tuesday to honor his successful spell with the club.
Several of his teammates took to social media to react to the news, with his striker partner Vinicius Jnr leading the tributes.
The Brazilian posted on Instagram: ‘Benzvini, Vinzema… Whatever. The result has always been the same: goals, laughs, titles and above all lessons learned.
“When the too shy Sao Gonçalo guy arrived in Madrid in 2018, you were the first to welcome me. I will never forget.
‘I grew up with you. We won Spain, Europe and the world together. And I was able to applaud his Ballon d’Or with great pride.
‘We’re wrapping up this real-life ‘dark duo’ today, but I’ll always have our videos as inspiration and memories of an unforgettable moment.
“Karim, you will be greatly missed. THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING, LEGEND’
Midfielder Aurélien Tchouameni also called Benzema a legend on Twitter.
His French team-mate Raphael Varane got in on the action, posting a longer message to his former Real Madrid colleague writing: ‘Goals, memories, trophies and respect’.
‘A word above all… Legend. Good luck in your next chapter, bro.
Los Blancos goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois paid tribute by displaying ‘KB9’ with a white heart, signifying Benzema’s relationship with his club.
Karim Benzema could join Cristiano Ronaldo playing in the Saudi league
Los Blancos goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois paid tribute by displaying ‘KB9’ with a white heart, signifying Benzema’s relationship with his club.
Brazilian duo Rodrygo and Vinicius added to the Instagram post, both commenting with tearful emojis as they bid farewell to a club legend.
Although it’s unclear what the future holds for the Madrid captain, Benzema is set to join Saudi side Al-Ittihad on a two-year deal worth around £345million.
The potential transfer would see the 35-year-old face former team-mate and friend Cristiano Ronaldo in the Saudi Pro League.
It remains to be seen if a move will materialize, with several alternative clubs sure to revolve around the Los Blancos icon.
