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Karim Benzema

Karim Benzema is a French professional footballer who plays as a forward.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated September 11, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Karim Benzema is a French professional footballer who plays as a forward. Born in Lyon in 1987, he began his career at Olympique Lyonnais before joining Real Madrid in 2009, where he became one of the club's all-time leading scorers. He won the Ballon d'Or in 2022 after a standout season and announced his retirement from the French national team in December 2022.

Early life and youth career

Benzema was born in Lyon, France, on 19 December 1987. He developed as a player in the Olympique Lyonnais youth system and progressed into the senior team.

Real Madrid career

Benzema joined Real Madrid in 2009 and spent 14 seasons with the club. He played 648 matches and scored 354 goals, becoming the second-highest scorer in Real Madrid history. He won 25 titles, including five UEFA Champions League titles.

International career

Benzema represented France internationally for many years. He announced his retirement from the national team in December 2022.

Honours and recognition

His honours include multiple UEFA Champions League titles, league championships, cup wins, and individual awards. His 2021–22 season helped secure the 2022 Ballon d'Or.

Key facts

  • Karim Benzema was born on 19 December 1987 in Lyon, France.
  • He came through the Olympique Lyonnais youth system before beginning his senior career there.
  • Real Madrid signed him in 2009; he played 648 matches and scored 354 goals.
  • He won 25 titles with Real Madrid, including five UEFA Champions League titles.
  • He won the Ballon d'Or in 2022 and retired from the French national team in December 2022.
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Canadian context

Karim Benzema is of interest to Canadian soccer readers as one of the leading strikers of his generation, with major achievements in the UEFA Champions League and international football that are widely followed in Canada.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Karim Benzema?
Karim Benzema is a French professional footballer known for his career as a forward, especially with Real Madrid and the French national team.
When and where was Karim Benzema born?
He was born on 19 December 1987 in Lyon, France.
What club did Karim Benzema play for before Real Madrid?
He came through Olympique Lyonnais and played for Lyon before joining Real Madrid in 2009.
How many goals did Benzema score for Real Madrid?
Real Madrid lists him with 354 goals in 648 appearances.
Did Karim Benzema win the Ballon d'Or?
Yes. He won the Ballon d'Or in 2022.
Is Karim Benzema still playing internationally for France?
No. He announced his retirement from the French national team in December 2022.

References

  1. Real Madrid — https://www.realmadrid.com/en-US/the-club/history/football-legends/karim-benzema
    Supports: Birthplace, date of birth, position, Real Madrid appearances and goals, titles won, Ballon d'Or, and note on France retirement.
  2. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karim_Benzema
    Supports: French nationality, national team retirement in 2022, and general career overview.
  3. ESPN — https://www.espn.com/soccer/player/bio/_/id/46858/karim-benzema
    Supports: Current club and player position.