KARIM BENZEMA vowed to end his career at Real Madrid after winning the 2022 Ballon d’Or.
The striker was recognised for his efforts in helping Real win LaLiga and the Champions League, with the Frenchman notching 44 goals last season.
At 34-years-old he is the oldest winner of the award in 66 years and he has no plans to hang up his boots anytime soon.
The striker said he is happy at Real Madrid and is taking things year by year, and when the time is right he will decide to retire rather than join another club.
Benzema said: “I will retire in Real Madrid. There’s no other option for me.
“I have a contract with Real Madrid. I feel good currently. After that? I don’t know, because I am thinking year on year.
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“If I feel good, I will continue in football, and if I do not feel good, we will see then. But right now I have two years of contract with Real Madrid.”
Often overlooked and criticised, Benzema has scored 328 goals for Los Blancos – since signing for around £35million in 2009.
Before last season, he was an underrated cog in sides that won three LaLiga titles and four Champions League trophies.
He often played second-fiddle to Cristiano Ronaldo – who was bought the same year from Manchester United.
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After collecting his award Benzema revealed his pride at completing a childhood dream.
He said: “This prize in front of me makes me really proud.
“When I was small, it was a childhood dream, I never gave up. Anything is possible.
“I’m really proud of my journey here. It wasn’t easy, it was a difficult time for my family as well.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
