‘He deserves it’ – Real Madrid great Ronaldo backs Karim Benzema for Ballon d’Or

Real Madrid legend Ronaldo believes Karim Benzema deserves to win the 2022 Ballon d’Or after a “decisive” year in front of goal for the Spanish and European champions. The France international is the favourite to win the coveted annual award, which will be handed out on Monday. Ad Benzema scored a career-best 44 goals in 46 appearances for Real Madrid last season as they won La Liga and the Champions League.

Ballon d'Or'They orchestrate campaigns well' — Ballon d'Or boss says no coincidence Real Madrid win awards6 HOURS AGO Ronaldo, who is now president of Real’s La Liga rivals Real Valladolid, has also been impressed with how the 34-year-old has dealt with the pressure of succeeding Cristiano Ronaldo as Madrid’s main man since the Portuguese left for Juventus in 2018. “Benzema has dealt with all that very well,” Ronaldo told The Athletic. “For years, he was in Cristiano Ronaldo’s shadow, but he has shown he is a great player who really deserves to win this Ballon d’Or.

‘I understand myself better’ – Brazil legend Ronaldo opens up on therapy and mental health struggles 'They orchestrate campaigns well' — Ballon d'Or boss says no coincidence Real Madrid win awards Ballon d'Or 2022 LIVE — Benzema and Putellas eye top individual prizes “He has been playing well for many years, but this last season he was very decisive for Madrid. «He returned to play with France too. He has the talent to deserve the Ballon d’Or.” Another Real player who was crucial to their success last season was Ronaldo’s compatriot Vinicius Junior, who enjoyed a breakthrough season in 2021/22.