In a revealing interview with journalist José Felix Diaz for AS, Karim Benzema shared his all-time dream team, showcasing a blend of childhood idols, fierce rivals, and cherished teammates. The 37-year-old French striker, currently playing in Saudi Arabia, took a nostalgic journey through his illustrious career as he selected players who have left a lasting impact on him.
Benzema’s choice of goalkeeper raised eyebrows; he opted for German superstar Manuel Neuer instead of former Real Madrid stalwarts Iker Casillas or Thibaut Courtois, both of whom he played alongside for over a decade. In defense, Benzema leaned heavily on his Madrid connections, featuring Dani Alves on the right—his only deviation from a purely Madridista lineup—followed by the formidable trio of Pepe, Sergio Ramos, and Marcelo. Each of these defenders played pivotal roles during Benzema’s time at the Santiago Bernabéu.
In the midfield, the former Real Madrid captain highlighted his admiration for Zinedine Zidane, who not only served as an inspiration during his formative years but also coached him during some of his most successful seasons at the club. Joining Zidane in this attacking midfield setup are Manchester United’s Paul Pogba and Brazilian legend Ronaldinho, creating a dynamic and offensive-minded trio.
When it comes to attack, Benzema did not hold back. His forward line features an iconic combination: Lionel Messi on the right flank, Brazilian phenomenon Ronaldo Nazário at the center, and the legendary Cristiano Ronaldo completing this star-studded front three. Benzema has previously expressed that he views Ronaldo Nazário as the greatest striker in football history, making this selection particularly poignant.
The complete lineup chosen by Benzema is as follows: Neuer; Dani Alves, Pepe, Sergio Ramos, Marcelo; Zidane, Pogba, Ronaldinho; Messi, Ronaldo Nazário, Cristiano Ronaldo. This dream team reflects not just personal connections but also an appreciation for some of the greatest talents the sport has ever seen.
As fans reflect on this impressive lineup, one must wonder: how would such a team perform in today’s game? Given their collective experience and talent, it’s hard to argue against their potential dominance on any pitch.
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