Real Madrid midfielder lavishes praise on Karim Benzema: “All-time great and a legend” | OneFootball

Aurelien Tchouameni is one of Carlo Ancelotti’s first names on the Real Madrid team sheet this season. The youngster is the manager’s only direct defensive midfield option but has been spectacular since the start of the new season.

The 23-year-old has played in all nine of Real Madrid’s La Liga games so far, starting eight times. Notably, the only game he started on the bench was the derby that Los Blancos went on to lose.

Speaking to the media in a recent interview on Canal+ the French midfielder shed light on a plethora of topics related to his club career, beginning with how Karim Benzema influenced his decision to join Real Madrid.

“Karim Benzema is very cool. I was in contact with him during the negotiations to join Madrid and he immediately advised me to join. He’s an all-time great and a legend.”

When asked what records he wanted to have his name against in the world of football, Tchouameni said:

“Most balls won in a season, most duels won in a season. In general, to be the best at what I do.”

The ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine has left the globe polarised, but the young midfielder remained rooted in neutrality when asked to comment on the sensitive issue.

“Regardless of our personal beliefs, when you see families waking up in the morning with someone missing, our biggest priority must be to protect the lives and health of these civilians and children,” he said.

Tchouameni was then asked what Real Madrid possessed that other clubs across the globe lacked. His honest, yet amusing, reply brought out the essence of why players dream of wearing the white colours.

“Champions League titles (laughs). But beyond that, the fans are really special, the city is beautiful and most importantly, the organisation is bigger than anyone. That’s what makes the strength of Real Madrid. I enjoy representing this club every day.”

Commenting on his role models growing up, the midfielder picked a legend who, like him, represented both France and Real Madrid at the highest level.

“Zinedine Zidane is a role model for me. One of my first football memories ever is the 2006 World Cup final.”

Finally, the defensive midfielder took a deeper dive into explaining the greatness of the Merengues and what made them so special as a footballing institution.

“Real Madrid is the biggest club in the world. You always hear that, but you don’t realise how true it is until you’re a part of it. You can feel that power as soon as you walk through the door.”