Transfer window: Karim Benzema flirted with the Red Devils before Real

In the context of the Karim Benzema transfer window, the French prodigy first attracted Manchester United, but ultimately chose Real Madrid, leaving the Red Devils without their two French targets.

A brilliant start at Lyon

After shining with Olympique Lyonnais from his early professional debut, Karim Benzema quickly found himself on the radar of the biggest European clubs. His early talent made him a coveted object from the first seasons.

The flirtation with Manchester United

Highly coveted by Manchester United, the 2022 Ballon d’Or almost joined the Red Devils, where Alex Ferguson absolutely wanted him. The former Manchester manager also considered attracting Hatem Ben Arfa to form “one of the best duos in football history”. However, neither of the two Frenchmen signed.

During an interview with RMC, the former historic agent of “KB9”, Karim Djaziri, confirmed that his former protégé had almost packed his bags at the Red Devils. He recalled that Ferguson called him after a match where he had come to supervise Karim, saying he wanted the “Ben Brothers”.

Djaziri described that moment as the “hardest day of his agency career”, when he had to tell Ferguson that Karim had chosen Real Madrid. He added that the former manager reacted “very, very classy”, understanding the decision.

The same former agent specified that, in parallel, he was also negotiating for Gabriel Obertan, whom Ferguson eventually recruited. Thus, despite the disappointment of not getting Benzema or Ben Arfa, United still signed another French talent.

This turn of events shows how a player’s destiny can hinge on a simple phone call, turning a potential legendary duo into just a transfer window anecdote.