Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti has admitted that he was "surprised" to learn that Karim Benzema had decided to leave the club on a free transfer this summer.
Rumours surrounding the Frenchman's future gathered pace towards the end of last week, with various sources claiming that he was preparing to depart Bernabeu to move to Saudi Arabia.
Benzema then cooled those rumours, before Ancelotti played down suggestions that the forward could leave when he addressed the media ahead of Sunday's La Liga clash with Athletic Bilbao.
However, less than 24 hours later, Real Madrid announced that the 35-year-old had decided to leave on a free transfer, with Al-Ittihad widely expected to sign him.
Benzema scored on his farewell appearance for Los Blancos against Athletic on Sunday night, with his penalty securing a point for Los Blancos, which was enough to see them finish second in the La Liga table.
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Ancelotti has said that the forward only told him about his decision on Sunday morning, with the Italian "surprised" by the developments.
"Benzema has thought a lot about what to do. This is a part of the process," Ancelotti told reporters after the 1-1 draw with Athletic on the final matchday of the season.
"What Benzema has done at this club is legendary, unforgettable, something that will remain forever. Yes, his departure has surprised me, I think everyone. We have time to think about what to do.
"Benzema told me about his decision this morning. I respected his decision."
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As well as Benzema, Marco Asensio, Eden Hazard and Mariano Diaz are also leaving Real Madrid this summer, and Ancelotti confirmed that the club will be in the market for new attackers ahead of next season.
"Four forwards have left today. It's obvious we will [sign players]. We want a new striker who score goals and can adapt to our game. But we won't forget about our youngsters," he added.
"Hazard and Mariano didn't even warm up? It's been a decision. We had only five substitutions and they didn't ask to enter the pitch.
"I want to highlight Hazard and Mariano because their behaviour has been exemplar even if they did not play a lot. Very professional."
Nacho, Dani Ceballos, Luka Modric and Toni Kroos also only have deals with the Spanish giants until the end of June, but all four are expected to sign extensions in the near future.
