While Real Madrid was ultimately unsuccessful in their pursuit of Kylian Mbappe this summer, they won't be too down in the dumps considering the club is celebrating its 14th Champions League title. Despite the constant rumors linking Mbappe to Real Madrid this summer when his contract at PSG expired, the young French superstar stunned the footballing world when he announced his decision to remain in Paris and sign a new contract. Football fans had long been expecting the pairing of Karim Benzema and Mbappe in the attacking third for Real Madrid, but that will no longer be the case.

Benzema has finally broken his silence on Mbappe's massive decision to stay put at PSG, via French media outlet Telefoot, saying:

“I would have liked him to be able to fulfil his dream of playing for Real Madrid, being together,” Benzema said. “He chose PSG, we must respect him. It is his choice, he has many responsibilities. We will enjoy playing together in the national team. Everyone makes their own decisions. Real Madrid is Real Madrid, I am not disappointed. We are good friends, it will not affect our relationship.”

Benzema didn't deny that he would have enjoyed forming a partnership with Mbappe at Real Madrid, but admitted that the 23-year-old's decision would not affect their relationship. Mbappe and Benzema will still feature alongside one another for France's national team, so the opportunity to be teammates still exists.

Still, Real Madrid was hoping to add Mbappe to its ranks for quite some time, with many media members touting it as being a “done deal” for many months now. It's certainly a shock that Mbappe won't be at the club next season, but that won't change Real Madrid's mindset as they look to defend their Champions League title.