Arsene Wenger points at key Karim Benzema change for revival - "He makes it look simple"

Arsene Wenger believes Karim Benzema shedding weight and becoming a 'real athlete' has led the Real Madrid striker to become one of the world's best.

The France international netted his 15th Champions League goal of the season as Carlo Ancelotti's side secured a dramatic semi-final comeback victory over Manchester City. Riyad Mahrez's opener seemed to have booked an all-English final to face Liverpool, only for a two-minute double salvo from substitute Rodrygo to turn the tie on its head.

Benzema scored the winner from the penalty spot in extra time to seal a 6-5 aggregate victory to cap another fine performance. The 34-year-old is is enjoying arguably the best season of his career in terms of goalscoring, netting 43 times in 43 appearances.

Analysing the semi-final success, Wenger compared Benzema's game to the impressive output of fellow veteran strikers Robert Lewandowski and Zlatan Ibrahimovic. The Arsenal legend believes the French forward's improvement in recent seasons stems from his decision to cut up to three kilograms in weight.

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