Karim Benzema talks about leaving Real Madrid and the Ballon d’Or nominations

Karim Benzema insists he has no regrets about leaving Real Madrid last summer.

After an outstanding 2022/23 campaign that produced 31 goals in all competitions, Benzema let his contract expire and made a surprise move to Saudi Arabia, starting a wave of moves to the Middle East.

Madrid went on to win the La Liga title in Benzema’s absence and even won the Champions League last season, but the 36-year-old insists that leaving was the right decision.

“Some come and some go,” he said MARCA. “It is and always will be. It was the right time.

“Yes, I look back and feel happy. Last season, they showed strength, good football, that’s why they won the Champions League and La Liga. Today, I don’t see another team that can be better than Real Madrid.

“A fantastic, fantastic season. Real Madrid is always the best team in the world. Players come and go, but Real Madrid will always be at the top, very top. They are at the top and they will continue to prove it.

They are the best team in the world. They are always strong and fight for everything. I stand there, I look around and I don’t see any team that can be better. “

Madrid’s dominance at club level has seen a number of stars tipped as major contenders for this year’s Ballon d’Or award. Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham are expected to be in the running, while there is growing clamor for right-back Dani Carvajal to pick up the prize after guiding Spain to Euro 2024 glory again.

For Benzema, however, there is one clear winner.

“I will say Vini because he deserves his season not only for what he did this year, but what he did last year, he was more than others with his football and what he did with football. ,” said the Frenchman. “He’s a kid, he’s a perfect footballer.

“He can win a game on his own, yes with the help of his teammates, but he’s very good when Real Madrid need him and that’s why I think he deserves it. He’s always there and always shows up. All that, my favorite is Vini.”

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