Benitez is reportedly one of the favourites to replace Jose Mourinho at the end of the season.

"Real Madrid have a determined manager with a contract and this deserves respect. As a manager, you always have your sweetheart. I have a link with the fans and they have treated me well," Benitez told Radio Nacional de Espaņa.

"I arrived at Madrid when I was 13 years old and I'm from Madrid. But I don't want to get involved in this speculation because my words aren't always interpreted."