Karim Benzema is an enigmatic player that divides opinion across the world. While no one doubts his ability, many believe that he is not cut-out to be the main man at a club the stature of Real Madrid. The 31-year-old has spent a decade in Spain but is yet to receive the same adulation given to strikers that came before him despite winning more.
Playing as a perfect foil for Ronaldo, Benzema was able to be a key part of the greatest Madrid side that won three Champions League titles in a row and four in five years. This season has been one of the worst seasons for Madrid as the club has shown signs of a complete overhaul required in the summer.
This is understandable considering the exit of Cristiano Ronaldo and the ageing of several first-team players which has resulted in a drop in performance. However, one player that is likely to be part of the new Madrid is Benzema.
His work rate, ability to hold up the ball and clinical finishing is one aspect that the club would find difficult to replace.
There have been talks of signing Harry Kane or Mauro Icardi as replacements for the 31-year-old. However talented those two maybe they are yet to win any major titles in their career at their respective clubs.
Benzema is a battle-tested player that knows what it takes to deliver titles for a demanding team like Real Madrid. His recent double at Valladolid shows that he still has the goals in him and should not be written off ahead of next season at the Bernabeu.