February 16, 2010

Karim Benzema Returns to Lyon

Jean-Michel Aulas, Lyon president, said Karim Benzema feels isolated at Real Madrid ahead of his come back to Stade Gerland on Tuesday night for UEFA Champions League last-16 tie Lyon vs Real Madrid match.

Benzema left Lyon for Real Madrid in the summer in a deal that could finally be worth 41 million euros, but he has struggled to make an impact and has spent much of the season on the bench.

Karim Benzema Real costume
An injury to Gonzalo Higuain recently allowed Benzema a run in the first-team but, with Higuain now available again, Benzema appears set to be named among the substitutes for his homecoming. With many disappointed by Benzema's performances since his move to the Bernabeu, Aulas believes he feels lost among all the star players at Madrid.

"He's a bit isolated in the galaxy of Madrid," he said. "He needs a more personal touch from the coach and with his team-mates to gain confidence."