Benzema Names Favourite To Win 2024 Ballon d’Or Award

Former Real Madrid captain, Karim Benzema, has expressed his confidence in Vinicius Junior as the frontrunner to secure the prestigious Ballon d’Or award for this year.

Sportxparte reports that Benzema, a native of France, holds the conviction that Vinicius Junior stands out as the most deserving individual award recipient in the current season.

The Brazilian international had an exceptionally successful season with Real Madrid in the 2023–24 campaign.

He achieved a remarkable tally of 24 goals and contributed 11 assists in 39 matches across various competitions.

Vinicius Junior and Karim Benzema

Vinicius, who has the honour of playing alongside Benzema at Madrid, has also been part of the team that clinched the La Liga and the Champions League titles with Real Madrid.

“Vinicius can win you a match alone, of course, with the help of his teammates, but he is very good when Real Madrid needs him and that is why I think he deserves the Ballon d’Or,” Benzema said (via Mardid Xtra on X).

“He is always there, so he is the best candidate for me.”

Trent Alexander-Arnold To Real Madrid?

In other news, Liverpool has reportedly refrained from valuing Trent Alexander-Arnold as interest in the player has escalated this summer.

Real Madrid’s interest is significant as they are evaluating the 25-year-old English footballer to fill a crucial position in their team potentially, as they seek to compete for another European title, following their victory in the Champions League the previous season.

Sportxparte reports that with the future of Real Madrid’s right-back position uncertain due to Dani Carvajal’s contract ending in 2024, the club’s manager, Carlo Ancelotti, is on the lookout for a long-term successor.

Meanwhile, Alexander-Arnold’s contract with Liverpool is set to conclude in 2025, adding to the intrigue surrounding his potential transfer.

This week, reports indicate that Real Madrid has expressed ‘clear’ interest in Alexander-Arnold, with discussions between the two parties reportedly underway.

It has also been suggested that Alexander-Arnold is open to the possibility of a transfer.