Will play ? Won’t play? On the eve of the kick-off of the shock between PSG and Real Madrid, the suspense remains as to the presence of Karim Benzema at the kick-off of the shock of the eighth of the Champions League to go to the Parc des Princes. Touched in the left thigh since January 23 and his premature exit against Elche, the Madrid striker (24 goals, 9 assists) did not lift the veil this Monday at a press conference but expressed his desire to face his friend Kylian Mbappé.
How do you feel ?
KARIM BENZEMA. I have done many hours of work. I feel much better. We still have training to see how I feel and if I can play tomorrow. I feel good, but I need to have more feeling on the pitch.
Do you feel ready to play at 100% of your abilities?
I’m 100% in my head. I recovered well. But you also need feelings on the pitch. I will take my marks on the field and then we will decide for tomorrow’s match.
This meeting is important, would you be ready to force to anticipate your return?
Me, I will always force myself for my team. I’m here to help, if I have to force it I will. But it’s not about getting hurt, it wouldn’t be good for the future.
Does facing Kylian Mbappé, whom we know in Real Madrid’s sights, make this match special?
Facing Kylian is special, he is one of my teammates in the France team and as we know he could arrive in Madrid. The important thing is to win this match, friendship is for after.
Will you drop him a note before the game?
No, what I can wish him is a good match, that he plays as he knows how to do because he is a great player.
Are you proud of the dependence on Benzema that seems to affect Real or does it put you under pressure?
No I don’t take it as a form of addiction, the team was able to win without me. The most important thing is that I did everything to be here today. I’ll see what my feelings are, but don’t take any risks for the future.
You will find Leo Messi whom you have faced for a long time during the Clasico… He does not seem so comfortable in France…
I’m not going to talk about Messi’s level of football, he’s an extraordinary player. People expect more. But he is someone who is excellent. Messi and football are inseparable, the two go together.
What would change the presence of Neymar who could return from injury tomorrow?
Neymar is just like Messi, he’s a top player. I don’t know if it’s 100%. Good for Paris if he plays. Neymar is like Messi, he is a very strong player.
Do you agree with Mauricio Pochettino who said there was no favorite in this duel?
In today’s football, there is no longer a favourite, everyone can reach the final.
How do you prepare to respond to each time present during major meetings?
(He smiles). I keep the concentration and the desire to have fun on the field. Above all, you have to be happy on the pitch, afterwards you need a bit of luck, but being ready in the head is the most important thing.
Do you understand the many criticisms of PSG’s level of play?
It’s difficult because they play against teams that are waiting for them. When you play against low blocks it is difficult to play the game. Sometimes it is not pretty to see because it is difficult to move the opponent. You have to be patient. But Paris remains a good team with good individuals. It’s a very big team. In the Champions League, this kind of team is gaining momentum. We cannot say that PSG are not playing well or having difficulties. This is a team that knows how to level up.
Do you think you will end your career in Ligue 1?
No, at the moment I’m completely focused on what I’m experiencing in Madrid. I think it’s a little premature to talk about that. I feel good in Madrid, it’s the best club in the world.
