Real Madrid's Jose Mourinho: The real Karim Benzema has finally arrived
Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has hailed the rapid progress of striker Karim Benzema since his arrival two years ago.
The presence of the former Inter boss at the helm has rejuvenated the former Lyon hitman's career, after initially finding it difficult to shoulder the expectations of his €35 million price tag.The 48-year-old expressed his delight at the forward's development. "I think Benzema has improved all-round, as he is now stronger both physically and mentally," Mourinho told French television show Telefoot. "He now understands the game more fully. We all know what his attacking game is like, but he has also improved a lot defensively," he continued. "Now, for me, the real Benzema is playing for Real Madrid. Mourinho, never one to be totally satisfied, proceeded to intimate the aspects of his game that he must now concentrate on improving, despite reiterating his impressive quality. "He is a player who, as a centre forward, has a level of creativity that I find incredible," he enthused. "He could be a little more of a predator, though." Meanwhile, Benzema has since offered his analysis of France's 1-0 victory over the USA on Friday, where he admitted that his side lacked firepower, but stressed the importance of Loic Remy, who needed to come off the bench to score the winner. "It was a good game, at least during the second half. In the first half, it was difficult and it took us 20 to 25 minutes to get into the game," he said. "I speak in regards to our attack as defensively, we were there and in the tackle too. Offensively, we tried hard, but we did not find much [in terms of chances] I would say. "[In regards to Remy], he is a very good player that makes the difference every time he plays," he continued. "At Marseille, he scores almost all of their goals [laughs]. He's someone I like on and off the field, and I hope it will continue like that. The France team needs Loic Remy." France entertain Belgium on Tuesday, as they look once more to Benzema for goals. [Goal.com]