Al-Ittihad star Karim Benzema has conducted an extensive interview with Marca newspaper, in which he discussed a number of things, most notably his regret at leaving Real Madrid last summer.
Real Madrid terminated Benzema’s contract by mutual consent and the French star then joined Al-Ittihad on a free transfer, but his last season was very modest and full of crises.
When asked about that, Benzema replied, “Players come and go, that always happens. Certainly when I look back I feel happy.”
He added, “Last season Real Madrid looked strong, played good football and that’s why they won the Champions League.”
As for who deserves the Ballon d’Or from his point of view, he said, “Vinicius is a complete player and he can bring you victory alone, so I think he deserves the Ballon d’Or.”
“Vinicius is always there at the right time, and whenever the team needs him, he shows up, so he’s my favorite.”
Benzema previously won the Ballon d’Or in 2022 after a strong season similar to what Vinicius Junior did with Real Madrid last year, but the Brazilian finds himself in fierce competition with the duo Jude Bellingham and Rodri.
