Ballon d’Or 2023: The Case for Karim Benzema

Karim Benzema, the reigning Ballon d’Or winner from 2022, has once again found himself in the limelight as a nominee for the Ballon d’Or 2023. His journey from the streets of Lyon to the grand stadiums of Madrid and now to Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ittihad Club has been nothing short of spectacular.

Karim Benzema’s journey with Real Madrid is a tale of resilience, dedication, and unparalleled skill. Born on 19 December 1987 in Lyon, France, Benzema began his football career with Olympique Lyonnais, making significant contributions to their Ligue 1 title wins. However, it was his transfer to Real Madrid in 2009 for a whopping €35 million that marked the beginning of an era.

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Real Madrid: A Legacy Etched in Gold

At Madrid, he faced initial challenges, including adapting to a new country and the weight of expectations. Yet, with time, he emerged as one of the club’s most reliable forwards, forming a formidable trio with Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale, fondly referred to as the “BBC”. This trio played a pivotal role in Real Madrid’s four Champions League victories between 2014 and 2018.

Benzema’s evolution as a player became even more evident post-Ronaldo’s departure in 2018. Transitioning from the false 9 position to a sole striker, he showcased his versatility and goal-scoring prowess. His accolades include being named in the La Liga Team of the Season for four consecutive years from 2018 to 2022, winning the La Liga Best Player award twice, and securing the Pichichi Trophy in 2022. His crowning moment came when he finished as the Champions League top scorer, leading Real Madrid to its fifth title in 2022. This was followed by him captaining the club in his final season before moving to Al-Ittihad.

Karim Benzema, during his tenure with Real Madrid from 2009 to 2023, made a total of 648 appearances and netted 354 goals. This prolific scoring rate has solidified his position as Real Madrid’s all-time second-highest goalscorer. His contributions on the field were not just limited to scoring, as he also established himself as the club’s top assist provider.

This remarkable achievement places him among the elite players in the illustrious history of Real Madrid, making him a strong contender for the Ballon d’Or 2023 as well.

Real Madrid’s All-Time Top Scorers: The Path to Ballon d’Or 2023

As the race for the Ballon d’Or 2023 heats up, it’s essential to reflect on the legacy of the players who have donned the iconic white jersey of Real Madrid. The club, with its rich history, has been home to some of the world’s most prolific goal-scorers. From Cristiano Ronaldo’s unparalleled goal-scoring feats to Karim Benzema’s consistent performances leading to his Ballon d’Or 2023 nomination, the list below showcases the legends who have etched their names in Real Madrid’s record books. Their contributions have not only shaped the club’s legacy but have also set the benchmark for excellence in world football.

Ballon d’Or 2022: A Deserved Victory

Last year, Benzema clinched the Ballon d’Or, standing out among a list of exceptional nominees. His win was a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and unmatched skill on the field. The exact points he garnered in comparison to other nominees would provide a clearer picture of the margin of his victory.

In his triumphant run to clinch the Ballon d’Or 2022, Karim Benzema surpassed a formidable roster of football’s finest. This included the prolific Erling Haaland and playmaker Kevin de Bruyne from Manchester City, Real Madrid’s own Luka Modric, Vinicius Junior, and the outstanding goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. He also outshone Paris Saint-Germain’s speedster Kylian Mbappe, Liverpool’s dynamic duo of Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane (who later moved to Bayern Munich), and the ever-reliable Robert Lewandowski, who transitioned from Bayern Munich to Barcelona that year. Benzema’s ascendancy to the top amidst such esteemed competition highlights his exceptional year with Real Madrid.

In 2022, the 7-time winner Messi wasn’t on the nominee list, but this year at Ballon d’Or 2023, he is poised to outshine him as the current world champion.

A Surprising Move to Al-Ittihad

In a move that surprised many, Benzema transferred to Saudi team Al-Ittihad in the summer of 2023. The transfer, as reported by Transfermarkt, was a free transfer, even though his market value stood at €25.00m. This move marked a new chapter in Benzema’s illustrious career, and fans are eager to see how he will fare in this new environment. Likely, this transfer won’t bolster his chances for the Ballon d’Or 2023 accolade.

France National Team: A Journey to Remember

Benzema made his debut for the senior France national team on March 28, 2007. Since then, he has earned 97 caps and scored 37 goals for his country. While he has been a pivotal player for France over the years, it’s unclear if he still plays for the national team or if he has decided to retire. However, his contributions to the French team, especially during their World Cup campaigns, cannot be overlooked. If he is a world champion, it would further solidify his position as one of the game’s greats.

Karim Benzema’s Valuation: A Testament to His Ballon d’Or 2023 Nomination

Karim Benzema, the French football maestro, has consistently proven his worth on the field, and his market valuation reflects his immense contribution to the sport. As of June 13, 2023, Benzema’s market value stands at a commendable €25.00m. This valuation, especially in the context of his nomination for the Ballon d’Or 2023, is particularly impressive considering his age and the typical depreciation in a player’s market value as they approach the latter stages of their career. It’s worth noting that Benzema’s highest market value was recorded at €60.00m back in February 22, 2016. His recent transfer to Al-Ittihad Club from Real Madrid in July 2023 was a free transfer, even though his market value was pegged at €25.00m at that time. This move and the associated market value underscore the respect and admiration Benzema commands in the football community, both for his past achievements and the potential he still brings to any team.

Ballon d’Or 2023: The French Contenders and Beyond

The Ballon d’Or 2023 is not just a testament to individual brilliance but also highlights the depth and talent of national footballing powerhouses. France, a nation with a storied football history, has once again presented a strong lineup of contenders for the coveted award. The likes of reigning champion Karim Benzema and the prodigious Kylian Mbappé are leading the charge for Les Bleus. Their exceptional performances on both the club and international stages have solidified their positions as frontrunners. However, the competition is fierce. Beyond the French borders, several other players are vying for the top spot, showcasing the global nature of this prestigious accolade. As the countdown to the Ballon d’Or 2023 announcement continues, the narratives of these French contenders and other potential winners weave an intriguing tale of dedication, skill, and passion for the beautiful game.