In a recent interview, footballing legend Karim Benzema made a bold prediction about his former Real Madrid teammate, Vinícius Júnior. The French striker, who now plies his trade with Al Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, believes the young Brazilian is destined for greatness and will one day claim the sport’s most prestigious individual honor – the Ballon d’Or.
Benzema’s Glowing Endorsement
Speaking to Spanish outlet Marca, Benzema didn’t mince words when discussing Vinícius Júnior’s potential. The veteran forward, who himself won the Ballon d’Or in 2022 after a stellar season with Real Madrid, offered some sage advice to his former protégé.
“[I told Vinicius] to not take any notice,” Benzema revealed. “He shouldn’t lower his intensity, because he’s the best in the world, and one day he will win the Ballon d’Or.”
– Karim Benzema
High praise indeed from a player who knows a thing or two about reaching the pinnacle of the sport. Benzema’s words carry weight, and his conviction in Vinícius Júnior’s abilities is sure to inspire the 22-year-old as he continues his meteoric rise.
Vinícius’ Ballon d’Or Near-Miss
Benzema’s prediction comes on the heels of Vinícius Júnior narrowly missing out on the Ballon d’Or in 2024. The electric winger finished second in the voting, behind Manchester City midfielder Rodri, despite playing a pivotal role in Real Madrid’s LaLiga and Champions League double.
In a controversial move, Real Madrid boycotted the award ceremony in Paris to protest the result. But Benzema believes Vinícius should pay no attention to the snub and continue playing with the same intensity and flair that has made him one of the most exciting players in world football.
FIFA’s Stamp of Approval
While the Ballon d’Or eluded him, Vinícius Júnior did receive recognition from FIFA, winning the prestigious The Best award last month. The accolade, which honors the top performer over the past year, was a testament to the Brazilian’s scintillating form and growing influence on the global stage.
With both Benzema and FIFA in his corner, it seems only a matter of time before Vinícius Júnior claims his place among the sport’s all-time greats. His unique blend of pace, skill, and composure has already drawn comparisons to Brazilian legends like Ronaldo and Neymar, and at just 22 years of age, his best years are surely still ahead of him.
Benzema’s New Chapter
As for Benzema, the French striker is enjoying a new challenge in Saudi Arabia with Al Ittihad. The 35-year-old has been in fine form since making the move, scoring 10 goals in his first 10 appearances to help propel his team to the top of the Saudi Pro League.
Despite rumors of retirement, Benzema insists he has no plans to hang up his boots just yet. “I don’t know whose words they are. Nonsense,” he said of the speculation. “I don’t have a limit, to be able to say that in two, three or four years, that I’ll be leaving football. I feel good. My body is fine. I train well and we’ll see how I feel each year.”
With plenty of gas left in the tank, Benzema has his sights set on bringing silverware to Al Ittihad. “I want to keep winning,” he declared. “In my head, I want to win a trophy with Al Ittihad. It’s difficult because the level has improved a lot and the teams are strong, better than before. We’ll keep working, because we haven’t won anything yet.”
A Real Madrid Return?
Of course, Benzema’s legacy will forever be tied to Real Madrid, where he spent 13 trophy-laden years and established himself as one of the club’s all-time leading goalscorers. When asked about a potential return to the Spanish capital in the future, the Frenchman left the door open.
“Why not?” Benzema mused. “I’m in Jeddah now, and I’m happy. The time will come to see how my life is, and for sure I’ll be close to Madrid.”
– Karim Benzema
Whether as a player, coach, or ambassador, it seems inevitable that Benzema will find his way back to the Bernabéu at some point. But for now, his focus remains on conquering new challenges and inspiring the next generation of stars – chief among them, Vinícius Júnior.
As the Brazilian sensation continues his ascent to the top of the game, he can take heart in knowing that one of the greatest strikers of his era believes in him unequivocally. With Benzema’s backing and his own prodigious talent, Vinícius Júnior’s date with Ballon d’Or destiny feels closer than ever.
