Karim Benzema - A Detailed Overview
Early Life
Karim Mostafa Benzema was born on 19th December 1987 in Lyon, France. He was raised in an Algerian family in Bron, an eastern suburb of Lyon, and is the third of nine children. Growing up in a family passionate about football, he started playing at a very young age. After a good performance in a match at the age of nine, he caught the eye of the Lyon club's scouts who offered him a spot at their youth academy.
Youth Career
Benzema started his youth career at Bron Terraillon SC when he was only nine years old. He joined the local football club in 1996 and was quickly identified as a prodigious talent. Following a prolific stint in the youth division where he scored two goals per match on average, Karim Benzema was signed by Olympique Lyonnais in 1999. At Lyon, he was quickly propelled into the professional team due to his impressive goal-scoring ability.
Club Career at Lyon
Benzema made his professional debut for Lyon in the 2004-2005 season and scored his first goal in January 2005 against FC Metz. Over the next few years, he went on developing his skills and contributing significant goals that helped Lyon win four consecutive Ligue 1 titles from 2004-2008. His breakout season was in 2007-2008 when he was the league’s top scorer with 20 goals and named the Ligue 1 Player of the Year.
Transfer to Real Madrid
After his successful stint at Lyon, Benzema was transferred to Real Madrid in 2009 for a sum reported to be around €35 million. Karim quickly impressed at Real Madrid, forming a formidable attacking trio with Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale, dubbed 'BBC'. His intelligence, associative play, and clinical finishing have been key in helping Real Madrid to numerous trophies.
Career Highlights at Real Madrid
During his time at Real Madrid, Benzema has achieved consistent success, contributing significantly to the teams' victory in various tournaments. As of the end of the 2020-2021 season, he helped Real Madrid secure four Champions League titles, two La Ligas, and two Copa del Rey titles among numerous other honors. He is also the highest-scoring French player in the Spanish league's history.
International Career with France
Benzema began his international career with the French team in 2007. Over the years, he has been a key player for 'Les Bleus', notably at the 2014 FIFA World Cup where France reached the quarter-finals. He was not part of the squad for Euro 2016 and the 2018 World Cup due to off-field controversies. However, he made his return to the French squad for Euro 2020, showing impressive performances.
Controversies
Benzema’s career has not been devoid of controversy. In 2015, he was embroiled in a scandal involving an alleged blackmail over a sex tape featuring his teammate Mathieu Valbuena, which led to his exclusion from the French national team. In 2010, he was accused, and later acquitted, of soliciting an underage prostitute. Despite these controversies, Benzema has maintained a high level of professionalism on the pitch.
Playing Style
Regarded as one of the best strikers in world football, Benzema is lauded for his technique, creativity, and goal-scoring prowess. He is known for his excellent control and composure in front of goal, as well as his ability to hold up the ball and link up play. Moreover, his talent for scoring from both inside and outside the box has made him a versatile player.
Personal Life
Benzema was raised in a Muslim family of Algerian origin. Although he had an option to represent either France or Algeria on the international stage, he chose France. Off the field, he is known for his interest in fast cars and has a collection of luxury vehicles. He is also a father and posts regular updates about his children on social media.
