Benzema: It’s hard to match Cristiano’s goal total
The Frenchman was named UEFA Player of the Year for 2021/2022.
Despite being 34 years old, Karim Benzema claims to be in the finest shape of his career at Real Madrid.
After guiding Los Blancos to LaLiga Santander and Champions League victory last season, the Frenchman was crowned UEFA Player of the Year for 2021/22.
“At 34, I’m better and play better,” Benzema said to European Sports Media (ESM).
“It’s true that this was the finest season of my career on a personal level, but one thing hasn’t changed: I go to the pitch thinking about what I need to do to win the game, not about myself.”
Benzema went on to say that the Champions League title he won last season was the sweetest of his career because of the way Real Madrid turned their knockout matches around.
“Although each trophy has its own history and is unique, it is apparent that this Champions League was the most tough of the five I have won, but it was also the most beautiful for me because of the comebacks and because we never gave up,” Benzema continued.
The Frenchman also stated that he did not adjust his strategy following Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure from Real Madrid in 2018.
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“Cristiano was quite helpful,” Benzema stated.
“When he went, I realised I could take a step ahead in terms of scoring goals while still enjoying football.”
“My goal total has altered since then, but I’m still playing the way I believe you should play this game. The stats indicate that I am not far behind the Real Madrid icons, which gives me confidence despite the fact that I know that matching Cristiano’s goal [figures] is unattainable.
“That’s why I concentrate on what I can do on the field to help my team win. The most crucial factor is not the number. I don’t play with championships or ambitions in mind.
“I play because I enjoy football, albeit I have fantasies of winning the World Cup or the Ballon d’Or.”
