Benzema rubbishes Mourinho rift rumours

Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema insists the squad do not have a problem with coach Jose Mourinho.

Marca reported last week that several players – led by club captains Iker Casillas and Sergio Ramos – had threatened to leave the club if Mourinho was to stay beyond the end of the season, a rumour fiercely denied by president Florentino Perez.

And on Tuesday, Casillas’ girlfriend, Sara Carbonero, said the former Inter Milan coach no longer communicates with his squad.

But Benzema said the players were still behind the controversial coach, in a brief but firm statement.

“We do not have a bad relationship with the coach,” the France international told reporters.

Benzema praised team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo and Barcelona star Lionel Messi, while saying Antonio Adan has what it takes to deputise for the injured Casillas during his absence.

“Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are two amazing players. However, for us, Ronaldo is the better of the two,” he said.

“Adan is a great goalkeeper as well and I am sure that he will be up for the task.”

Real Madrid lock horns with Barcelona in the semi-final of the Copa del Rey, and Benzema is eagerly anticipating Wednesday’s first leg.

“I think that the Clasico is the biggest game in the world. Barcelona are a good team, but we will give our all to win the match,” he said.