Carlo Ancelotti rescued Karim Benzema's Real Madrid career, it has been revealed.

Marca says in 2014, when the Bayern Munich coach was in charge, Real had a deal in place for Luis Suarez, then of Liverpool.

However, Suarez's arrival was dependent on the sale Benzema.

It's suggested Ancelotti vetoed the plan, insisting Benzema was the ideal foil for Cristiano Ronaldo.

Real president Florentino Perez backed Ancelotti, so allowing Suarez to join Barcelona.