Benzema reveals why he scores more goals since Ronaldo left Madrid

The Frenchman has picked up the mantle of Real Madrid’s main man since CR7’s exit in 2018.

Karim Benzema has credited a change in his ‘game and ambitions’ as the main reason he has scored more goals since Cristiano Ronaldo left Real Madrid.

Ronaldo and Benzema played together in Madrid from 2009 until 2018. During their nine-year spell, the pair made 342 appearances alongside each other. They managed a combined 522 goals and 196 assists to help the club win 15 trophies; including four Champions Leagues.

Since Ronaldo’s departure in 2018, Benzema has become the club’s main man. The striker has thrived in the role, scoring 44 times last season to lead Los Blancos to a domestic and European double.

“It’s true I’ve scored more goals,” Benzema said in a press conference on how Ronaldo’s departure benefited his own form on Tuesday.

“But when Cristiano was here, we had a different style. I provided more assists, and he helped me on and off the pitch. I knew I could do more [at the time] and when he left, it was the time to change my game and ambitions. I’m doing that at the moment.”

🤜 @edermilitao 💥 @Benzema 🤛
#SuperCup pic.twitter.com/qhKxvEKkSb

— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) August 9, 2022

Benzema is not thinking about the Ballon d’Or

The 34-year-old’s exploits over the past 12 months have made him the favorite to win the 2022 Ballon d’Or.

“I’m not like that in terms of whether I’m the best or not,” Benzema added.

“I always give my all for this club, the best club in the world. I have to give more and more every year. It’s true I had a very good season, but other people can comment on if I’m the best in the world. I’m focused on helping my team in matches, that’s all I can say.

“I’m not thinking about [the Ballon d’Or], there are trophies to win every year, that’s very important. I always stress the importance of success for the team that leads to individual success.”

Benzema and Real Madrid return to action on Wednesday evening for a UEFA Super Cup clash with last season’s Europa League winners Eintracht Frankfurt.