Karim Benzema, the iconic former striker and one of the most revered figures in Real Madrid’s illustrious history, has recently made headlines with a series of candid and heartfelt statements praising the current incarnation of the club.

In an exclusive interview with MARCA on January 11, 2025, from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia—where he currently plies his trade with Al-Ittihad—Benzema expressed his belief that the present Real Madrid squad is stronger and more complete than the legendary team he once led alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale, famously dubbed the “BBC.”

His admiration was particularly focused on the electrifying Brazilian winger Vinícius Júnior, whose skills, according to Benzema, surpass even his own.

The Frenchman’s bold assertion that Real Madrid will clinch La Liga in the 2025-26 season has sparked widespread discussion and optimism among fans, pundits, and football enthusiasts worldwide.

Benzema’s legacy at Real Madrid is nothing short of monumental.

Over the course of 14 seasons, he became a symbol of consistency, excellence, and leadership.

During his tenure, he amassed an impressive haul of 25 major trophies, including five UEFA Champions League titles, two La Liga championships, and numerous domestic cups.

His goal-scoring record is equally remarkable, with 354 goals in 648 appearances, making him the club’s second-highest scorer of all time, trailing only Cristiano Ronaldo.

Benzema’s departure in 2023 to the Saudi Pro League marked the end of an era for Los Blancos, but his emotional connection to the club remains unbroken.

During his recent visit to the team’s concentration hotel in Jeddah—where Real Madrid was competing in the Spanish Super Cup—he shared moments of camaraderie with former teammates and the coaching staff, reaffirming his enduring bond with the club.

“Real Madrid is always Real Madrid, a team built to win everything,” he said, emphasizing the club’s relentless pursuit of excellence across all competitions.

The current Real Madrid squad, under the guidance of head coach Xabi Alonso, is embarking on an ambitious campaign for the 2025-26 La Liga season, which officially kicks off against Osasuna on August 19.

This new generation of Los Blancos boasts a dynamic blend of youthful exuberance and seasoned professionalism.

Key signings such as Dean Huijsen, Gonzalo, and Trent Alexander-Arnold have added depth and versatility to the lineup, complementing established stars like Federico Valverde, Jude Bellingham, and Kylian Mbappé.

Mbappé, who inherited Benzema’s iconic number 9 jersey, was instrumental last season, securing the Pichichi Trophy as La Liga’s top scorer.

Yet, it was Vinícius Júnior who truly captured Benzema’s admiration.

“I told Vinícius not to listen to the noise, that he is the best in the world and that one day he will win the Ballon d’Or,” Benzema revealed.

He praised the Brazilian’s explosive pace, exceptional vision, and lethal finishing ability, qualities that have made Vinícius a central figure in Alonso’s tactical setup.

Benzema’s comparisons to the legendary “BBC” trio are significant and invite reflection.

Between 2014 and 2018, Benzema, Ronaldo, and Bale formed one of the most formidable attacking units in football history, leading Real Madrid to an unprecedented four Champions League titles and two La Liga championships, among other honors.

Their synergy, combined with individual brilliance, redefined the standards of club football.

However, Benzema believes that the current squad surpasses even that golden era in terms of potential and balance.

“This team has everything: speed, technique, leadership, and hunger for titles,” he asserted.

The arrival of Xabi Alonso as head coach, following the successful reign of Carlo Ancelotti, has introduced a fresh tactical philosophy emphasizing verticality, quick transitions, and high pressing, perfectly suited to harness the talents of players like Vinícius and Mbappé.

Beyond his reflections on Real Madrid, Benzema opened up about his own career trajectory and current form.

At 37, he remains a prolific goal scorer for Al-Ittihad, leading the Saudi Pro League with 10 goals in 11 matches this season.

His recent performance, including a decisive brace in the Saudi Cup semifinal against Al-Hilal that pushed the match into a penalty shootout, showcased his enduring class and competitive spirit.

Despite his impressive form, Benzema acknowledged that retirement could be on the horizon, with May 2025 being a potential endpoint.

However, he emphasized that his decision will ultimately depend on how his body feels, underscoring his professionalism and self-awareness.

Importantly, Benzema has already agreed to return to Real Madrid in an ambassadorial role.

In partnership with club president Florentino Pérez, he will represent the club’s interests in the Arab world, a region of growing strategic importance for Real Madrid’s global brand and commercial ambitions.

The reaction to Benzema’s glowing endorsement of the current Real Madrid team has been overwhelmingly positive among fans and football analysts.

Many supporters see Vinícius Júnior as the natural successor to Benzema’s legacy—a player capable of carrying the club’s attacking mantle for years to come.

The upcoming season promises to be a defining one, with the first El Clásico scheduled for October 26 at the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.

This high-profile clash will serve as a litmus test for the team’s aspirations and a chance to validate Benzema’s confident predictions.

Meanwhile, Benzema continues to shine in Saudi Arabia, but his heart remains firmly rooted in Madrid, where his legacy as one of the greatest players in the club’s history is forever enshrined.

Looking forward, the Real Madrid project under Xabi Alonso appears to be on a trajectory toward sustained success.

The integration of young talents with experienced leaders creates a balanced squad capable of competing on multiple fronts.

Benzema’s insights provide a unique perspective, bridging the club’s glorious past with its promising future.

His belief in Vinícius Júnior’s potential to become the world’s best player and a future Ballon d’Or winner adds a compelling narrative to the season ahead.

Moreover, Benzema’s ambassadorial role is expected to strengthen Real Madrid’s ties with the Middle East, a region that has become increasingly important in the global football landscape.

His presence as a club representative will help foster relationships, promote the club’s values, and expand its fanbase in a key market.

This strategic move aligns with Real Madrid’s broader vision of global outreach and commercial growth.

In conclusion, Karim Benzema’s recent declarations have not only reignited discussions about the current Real Madrid team’s strength but also highlighted the enduring influence he continues to wield.

His admiration for Vinícius Júnior and confidence in the club’s prospects reflect a deep understanding of football’s evolving dynamics.

As the 2025-26 season unfolds, all eyes will be on Los Blancos to see if they can live up to the high expectations set by one of their greatest legends.

Meanwhile, Benzema’s journey in Saudi Arabia continues, but his legacy and heart remain forever intertwined with Real Madrid’s storied history.