Real Madrid legend Karim Benzema names his Ballon d’Or pick | OneFootball

Former Real Madrid and France star Karim Benzema has named his personal pick for the next Ballon d’Or award.

Frontman Benzema is for his part of course no stranger to the ‘Golden Ball’, having scooped the prize himself back in 2022.

As much came on the back of a stunning individual campaign, which saw the veteran attacker guide Real Madrid to glory in the Champions League.

With Los Blancos fresh off yet another title on the continent, it should therefore come as little surprise to hear of Benzema backing the sentiment that a member of Carlo Ancelotti’s squad is deserving of the title of world football’s best this time round.

Who, though, has the 36-year-old opted for?

After a moment of reflection on the question during an interview with Marca, Benzema threw his full backing behind the candidacy of former Real Madrid teammate Vinícius Jr:

“Ballon d’Or? I’m going to say Vini because he deserves it for his season and not just for what he’s done this year, but also for what he’s done last year, he was also above the rest with his football and what he does with the ball. He’s a kid, a complete footballer.”

Benzema continued:

“He can win a game on his own, of course with the help of his teammates, but he is very good when Real Madrid needs him and that is why I think he deserves it. He is always there and he always shows up. For all of that, my favourite is Vini.”

Conor Laird | GSFN