1. Karim Benzema was born in Lyon, France, to Algerian parents, giving him a multicultural background that influences his playing style.
2. He started his professional career at Olympique Lyonnais, where he won four consecutive Ligue 1 titles from 2005 to 2008.
3. Benzema was the top scorer in the UEFA Champions League for the 2021-2022 season, leading Real Madrid to their 14th title.
4. He became the first player since Ronaldo Nazário in 1997 to score a hat-trick in a Champions League knockout stage match for Real Madrid.
5. Despite being a prolific scorer, he often played a supporting role to Cristiano Ronaldo during their time together at Real Madrid, showcasing his selflessness on the field.
6. Benzema was awarded the prestigious Ballon d’Or in 2022, recognizing him as the best football player in the world for that year.
7. He is known for his exceptional technical skills, including dribbling, passing, and finishing, making him one of the most complete forwards in football history.
8. Benzema faced a long international career with ups and downs, being banned from the French national team from 2015 to 2021 due to off-field controversies.
9. He is also known for his philanthropic efforts, including support for children in need through various charitable initiatives.
10. In 2023, Benzema made a high-profile move to Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, marking a new chapter in his illustrious career.
