Benzema raring to go when Real Madrid face Osasuna: “I want to play on Sunday” | OneFootball

Kicking off the new season on fire with five goals in seven total matches, Karim Benzema’s positive start was brought to a halt after he suffered a knee injury against Celtic in a Champions League group stage tie.

Since then, the Frenchman has missed games against the likes of RCD Mallorca, RB Leipzig and Atletico Madrid, as Real Madrid have maintained their winning streak so far this season.

The club captain is nearing full recovery and returned to normal training with his teammates earlier today. And he has now expressed his desire to play against CA Osasuna this weekend.

“I’m pleased to be back with the team. It’s been some time and I’ve had time to do a pre-season. I’m feeling very good, comfortable. I want to play on Sunday”. he said speaking to the club’s official media.

The 34-year-old also gave an update on his fitness, and why the talismanic striker now believes he is fully ready to do what he does best.

“I have done a lot of physical work. I have not touched the ball. Today was my first training session. These days I did a lot of running and strength training inside the facilities. I also trained at home,” he said.

“I have done a lot of catching up because as I arrived late from the holidays, I have not had time to do a lot of pre-season.”

Ahead of a busy schedule in October, the veteran also emphasised how each and every game remains crucial, as every side has their sights set on pulling off an upset against the most in-form team in Europe.

“We have to continue. In our heads, we know that we have to win every game. Every game is important. Every team wants to beat Real Madrid, but we’re fine and ready to continue,” he insisted.

Discussing Los Merengues’ prospects in the 2022/23 campaign, he said: “I have seen the team very well, perfect. I have seen them full of victories, goals and character. We have a great team although it can be said that we have two teams.

“There is no difference between the people who start the game and those who enter with the game already started. I see the team very well.”

While Carlo Ancelotti’s side have adjusted perfectly to Benzema’s absence, he remains the side’s undeniable best player and biggest leader.

Just last season, not a soul can suggest that a single player in Europe outdid the legendary striker’s performances throughout the course of the term.

The hope remains that Benzema makes a return on the pitch against Osasuna and spearheads Real Madrid to yet another fruitful season.