Karim Benzema believes former Real Madrid teammate Vinicius Junior will “win the Ballon d'Or” one day after missing out in 2024.
The Brazilian was the favorite to win the prize after helping Madrid to LaLiga and Champions League glory following a stellar campaign.
However, it was Manchester City's Rodri who won the Ballon d'Or after winning the Premier League and helping Spain to the Euro 2024 title. With the outcome reportedly leaked prior to the ceremony, Vinicius, along with his teammates, boycotted the event in October.
Vinicius, who won FIFA's 'Best for Men' award in December, scored 24 goals in all competitions in 2023/24, and provided a further nine assists in 40 appearances.
In LaLiga last season, only Jude Bellingham (25) had more goals for Madrid than Vinicius (20), while the Brazilian also attempted (177) and completed (65) the most dribbles for his side.
Benzema, who now plays for Al-Ittihad in the Saudi Pro League, met his old side, who play the Supercopa de Espana final against Barcelona in Saudi Arabia on Sunday, and backed Vinicius to win the prestigious award in the future.
“[I told Vinicius] “He shouldn't lower his intensity because he is the best in the world and one day he will win the Ballon d'Or.”
“We talked more as friends. Strangely enough we talked more about life than football. It was fun. I watch the games and we talked for a bit.
“For example, with Vinicius we talked about the Ballon d'Or, but deep down it was a chat with everyone, about simple things, about life.”
Benzema won the Ballon d'Or in 2022 after also helping Madrid to a LaLiga and Champions League double.
Despite turning 37 last month, the Frenchman insisted he was not yet thinking about retirement.
'I don't know whose words they are. Nonsense,” Benzema said. “I have no limit to say that in two, three or four years I will leave football.
“I feel good. My body is fine. I'm training well and we'll see how I feel every year.”
“I want to keep winning. In my mind I want to win a trophy with Al-Ittihad. It is difficult because the level has improved a lot and the teams are strong, better than before.”
Benzema also did not rule out a return to Madrid, where he spent 14 seasons and scored 354 goals in 648 games.
“Why not?” Benzema added. “I am now in Jeddah and I am happy. The time will come to see what my life is like, and I will definitely be close to Madrid.”
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