Riise: 'Amazing' Benitez good enough to turn Real Madrid around

Weekend defeat at Villarreal meant los Blancos slipped five points behind Barcelona and Atletico Madrid at the top of La Liga, with rumours of squad discontent intensifying as Benitez struggles with the expectations of expectant Madridistas.

Cristiano Ronaldo has reportedly aired his disgruntlement, several other players are believed to have preferred an “easier life” under former coach Carlo Ancelotti, while off-field problems involving Karim Benzema and the club’s expulsion from the Copa del Rey have made Benitez’s return to his homeland increasingly difficult.

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