Karim Benzema has lauded Manchester United superstar Cristiano Ronaldo after totting-up Ronaldo-like numbers for Real Madrid this season. Benzema scored 44 goals in 46 games for the Spanish giants as they eased to another La Liga crown and conquered all before them in Europe.
Benzema and his Real teammates had to do it the hard way when picking up another Champions League winner's medal; beating star-studded Paris Saint-Germain and three Premier League teams on their way to the big one. The 34-year-old netted a staggering 15 times in the marquee European competition.
Those figures would draw a 'thumbs-up' from one-time Real teammate Ronaldo. But how did the United frontman set Benzema on his way to such heights?
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Having returned to the France set-up following a much-publicised hiatus, Benzema is arguably at the peak of his powers right now - despite turning 35 later this year - and has also been installed as a heavy favourite to claim his first ever Ballon d'Or when that glitzy awards ceremony rolls around.
Ronaldo knows a thing or two about that, too, having won five Ballon d'Ors in his memorable career.
Speaking to Onze Mondial about Ronaldo while on France duty, Benzema said: "When I watched him, I tried to understand everything he did; the goals, the shots, the passes and the ball-control. I dissected everything about Ronaldo. That's why I can say it's impossible to achieve the same."
On his Ballon d'Or prospects, Benzema said: "I'm having a great season, I think [he can win it]. I was present during many important matches, I managed differences. All this makes people recognise my performance and, then, I was consistent throughout the season."
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