Vini Jr, Jude Bellingham: Karim Benzema chooses his preferred Ballon d’or winner

Former Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema has revealed his preferred Ballon d’or winner as Madrid teammates Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Junior continue to lead the race.

Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham are expected to be in the running, while there are growing shouts for right-back Dani Carvajal to take the prize after steering Spain to Euro 2024 glory as well. However, some fans have insisted that Man City’s Rodri should also be in contention.

Benzema who left Real Madrid ahead of 2023/24 season after his contract expired and made the surprise move to Saudi Arabia has now choose Vinicius Junior as his preferred candidate.

“I’m going to say Vini because he deserves it for his season and not just for what he’s done this year, but also for what he did last year, he was also above the rest with his football and what he does with the ball,” the Frenchman said. “He’s a kid, a complete footballer.

“He can win a game on his own, 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 it. He is always there and he always shows up. For all of that, my favourite is Vini.”

The 36-year-old also opened up on his exit at Man City noting that leaving was the right decision.

“Some come and others go,” he told MARCA. “It’s like that and it will always happen. It was the right moment.

“Of course I look back and feel happy. Last season, they gave a sensation of power, of good football and that’s why they won the Champions League and La Liga. Today, I don’t see any other team that can be better than Real Madrid.

“A spectacular season, very good. Real Madrid is always the best team in the world. Players come and go, but Real Madrid will always be at the top, at the very top. They are the best and will continue to prove it.

They are the best team in the world. They’re always strong and fighting for everything. I stand there, look around and don’t see any team that’s capable of being better.”