Karim Benzema, now a striker for Saudi club Al-Ittihad, recently shared some touching words about his former team, Real Madrid. The French forward, who spent 14 unforgettable years at the Santiago Bernabéu, expressed his admiration for the current strength and talent of the Merengues. “Real Madrid is the best team this year. They are very strong, all the players,” said Benzema. “Real Madrid is the best team in the world. Kylian Mbappé’s contribution will delight many fans. It’s a dream for everyone to see these players scoring goals, providing assists… they have it all.”
His statement, republished by Madrid Universal, quickly made the rounds on social media, sparking enthusiasm among Madridistas and football fans alike. Even after his departure in 2023, Benzema continues to have immense respect and affection for the club that shaped much of his legendary career. These comments also reflect Benzema’s deep understanding of what it means to wear the white jersey: a symbol of excellence, resilience and history.
Karim Benzema’s relationship with Real Madrid is one built on loyalty, success, and mutual respect. Joining the club in 2009 from Lyon, the Frenchman endured early challenges before becoming one of its greatest ever players. Over his 14 seasons, he won every major trophy available — five UEFA Champions League titles, four La Liga championships, and the 2022 Ballon d’Or, which crowned him the best player in the world. What made Benzema’s journey special was his evolution. In his early years, he played as a selfless striker, supporting Cristiano Ronaldo and providing assists rather than chasing personal glory. After Ronaldo’s departure in 2018, Benzema stepped into the role of leader and primary scorer, guiding a new generation of Madrid players to success.
Under Carlo Ancelotti, he became the cornerstone of Real Madrid’s attack, combining intelligence, technique, and composure to devastating effect. His leadership on and off the field earned him the captain’s armband — and the respect of teammates, fans, and opponents alike. When Benzema left Madrid in 2023 for Al-Ittihad, it marked the end of an era. Yet his admiration for the club has never faded. His latest comments once again demonstrate his enduring pride in being part of Real Madrid’s legacy. Speaking about his former team’s current form, Benzema emphasized their collective quality: “They have everything — goals, creativity, intelligence. Every player knows their role and plays for the team. That’s what makes Real Madrid special.”
His praise is especially meaningful considering his firsthand knowledge of the club’s culture. Few players understand the demands, pressure, and expectations that come with representing the Spanish giants as deeply as Benzema does.In his remarks, Benzema also mentioned Kylian Mbappé — the latest superstar to join the Real Madrid project. The arrival of the French forward has sparked renewed excitement among fans and strengthened the team’s global image. “Kylian Mbappé’s contribution will delight many fans,” Benzema said. “It’s a dream for everyone to see these players score goals and make assists.” Benzema’s comments underline the sense of continuity between generations of French stars at Real Madrid. For years, supporters dreamed of seeing Mbappé in the famous white kit, and now that dream has become reality.
This current Real Madrid squad represents a perfect blend of experience and youth. Veterans like Luka Modrić and Dani Carvajal continue to provide leadership, while younger stars are writing a new chapter of dominance. Under Carlo Ancelotti’s calm but demanding management, the team has developed a balance between tactical discipline and attacking freedom. Benzema, who played a major role in establishing this era of dominance, clearly takes pride in seeing his former club thrive. “They are still improving, but even now, they’re the best team in the world,” he said. “They have the mentality, the players, and the desire to keep winning.”
Even from afar, Benzema remains a symbol of Real Madrid’s golden years. His legacy continues to resonate in every goal scored by the new generation. The Frenchman’s journey from a quiet talent to captain of the greatest club in football reflects the very essence of the Madrid ethos: perseverance, adaptation, and ambition. Since joining Al-Ittihad, Benzema has spoken fondly of his time in Madrid, often expressing his gratitude to the fans and the organization who supported him through both triumphs and adversity.
“Real Madrid will always be my home,” he said in a farewell interview. “It’s not just a club, it’s a family. I grew up here as a player and as a man.” From Saudi Arabia, Benzema now sees his former club continue to dominate, which hardly surprises him. He knows firsthand what makes Real Madrid extraordinary: the relentless pursuit of perfection, the belief that no game is ever lost, and the legacy of players who inspire the next generation.
