Why Benzema is the only player yet to return for pre-season: explained

All the Real Madrid players, even those that played for their national teams in June, have returned for the pre-season - except for one. Karim Benzema is the only player who is still on holiday, Marca report.

The French striker was given extra rest by Carlo Ancelotti. The coach understands that Benzema will again have a key role next season and will end up playing a lot of minutes.

After Luka Jovic's departure, Mariano remains the only backup to Karim. However, it appears that Ancelotti doesn't trust him too much.

According to La Sexta, Benzema will join the squad on July 19 when they will already be in the USA on the pre-season tour. He will travel directly to Los Angeles.