Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has revealed Sir Alex Ferguson's disappointment at not signing Real Madrid star Karim Benzema. The legendary manager notably wanted young Benzema to join him at Old Trafford, but the star headed to the Santiago Bernabeu instead.
Speaking to BT Sport (via Mirror), Ferdinand discussed the events leading up to the star striker's potential signing, saying:
"The first time I played against him was 2008, and that was the first time I had seen him up close and personal. If you see the goal he scored against us, look how many players are around him, but all he needed was one touch, it was all one motion."
"I remember coming off the pitch and Sir Alex Ferguson said, ‘Don’t worry, I’m trying to get him’. But with his African connections, and how influential Real Madrid were, he chose them. I think looking back, Sir Alex will believe that is one of his biggest regrets not getting him to sign for the club."
Karim Benzema was with Lyon at the time, taking Ligue 1 by storm, and his performances were brilliant enough for the European juggernauts to take note. While both Real Madrid and Manchester United tried to sign the young star, he chose the Santiago Bernabeu where he has remained ever since.
Benzema has been instrumental in Madrid's recent successes, including their current position at the top of La Liga standings. He has also been a key figure in their hunt for a Champions League trophy this season, scoring 12 goals in nine appearances so far.
Cristiano Ronaldo struggling to replicate Real Madrid form at Manchester United
Although he has arguably been one of the most clinical attackers in the history of the sport, much of Cristiano Ronaldo's prowess came during his Madrid years. During his first stint at Old Trafford, the then-youngster found his footing and became a deadly force in the final third.
Madrid saw their Galactico and paid heftily for the Portuguese star, taking him from United and finally finding an answer to Barcelona's Lionel Messi. After numerous trophies and honors, including three consecutive Champions League wins, Ronaldo exited Madrid for Juventus.
His short stint in Italy has led him back to where it all blossomed - Old Trafford, with the star making the decision to return last summer. Although he scored on his debut and has been Manchester United's main marksman this season, Ronaldo has faltered in recent appearances.
He hasn't scored a goal for the Red Devils in a month, having picked up a hat-trick against Tottenham Hotspur on March 12. Prior to that, a goal against Brighton and Hove Albion in mid-February was his only strike in six appearances. With United crashing out of all cup competitions while struggling to find the top-four in the league, rumors about Ronaldo's exit have increased in frequency.
If the rumors are to be believed, Ronaldo could leave Manchester United without winning a single trophy in his second spell.
pawelntyz
0
In Madrid Ronaldo gets support from mercelo , benzama , Dani carvahal and in Madrid the midfield trio was amazing does manunited have that magic in midfield in left or right wing .does he get proper support from his teammate ?? no cause the level has in Madrid players man United doesn't had or have . bad luck CR 7 you were king in Madrid we guys miss you .
Made no sense that comment but yea your right he doesn't have a team that does everything for him
Space_Man
0
this app is a Messi supporter
Lol. All Football didn't write the article. Google search the headline and you'll see the original
Moscowlee
0
How can he replicate his Real Madrid form when he's 37? It's not even his Juventus form but Real Madrid. Who is writing these things?
it's not even about whether the writer is a Messi fan. people just open their mouth to vomit trash. How do you expect a 37 year old, to replicate his form of late 20s or early 30a
riyimuyz
3
In Madrid Ronaldo gets support from mercelo , benzama , Dani carvahal and in Madrid the midfield trio was amazing does manunited have that magic in midfield in left or right wing .does he get proper support from his teammate ?? no cause the level has in Madrid players man United doesn't had or have . bad luck CR 7 you were king in Madrid we guys miss you .
Heaabnotz
0
Because Benzema now scores plenty of goals Ferdinand claims Alex almost signed him this Ferdinand guy has been talking alot this days
I swear . United would sold him long time
Heaabnotz
2
I don’t no if Ferdinand really said this but over the decade United must hv sold karim was if it were their play . Hw many of ur long term strikers still serve u nw
Heaabnotz
2
Ohhh Ferdinand U should be prosecuted for say this to sir Alex . First off all don’t u realize the years it took Benzema to get here
Rewalopz
1
How can he replicate his Real Madrid form when he's 37? It's not even his Juventus form but Real Madrid. Who is writing these things?
this app is a Messi supporter
rendeimpyz
4
If Karim was in current form in CR7 era,then CR7 would have 100+assist more..at the same time Messi always gets better finisher around him
Lipid93
3
Raw Gold is not easy to see. Our Karim our hero!👑
Chorongcomillion
1
Because Benzema now scores plenty of goals Ferdinand claims Alex almost signed him this Ferdinand guy has been talking alot this days
Space_Man
7
How can he replicate his Real Madrid form when he's 37? It's not even his Juventus form but Real Madrid. Who is writing these things?