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Renowned Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano has backed Real Madrid ace Karim Benzema to win the 2022 Ballon d'Or at the Theatre Chatelet in Paris on Monday (October 17). Romano further claimed that Benzema will remain in the Spanish capital beyond June 2023 (the end of his current contract), informing that he’ll sign a one-year extension.
Presented by France Football, the Ballon d'Or is arguably the most prestigious individual accolade in world football. As usual, the 30 most in-form players of the 2021-22 season were nominated for the 2022 edition, with 180 international journalists voting for the candidates.
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Romano, who was amongst the 180 journalists to cast their votes, has claimed that Real Madrid’s Benzema will take the Golden Ball home, courtesy of his remarkable performances last season. The transfer guru tweeted:
“Karim Benzema, the man of the day. Ballon d'Or winner later tonight after an incredible year... and very soon it will be time to announce his new deal with Real Madrid. New contract will be valid for one more season, June 2024. It's only matter of time.”
Benzema helped Real Madrid to the La Liga title, the Champions League trophy, and the Spanish Super Cup in the 2021-22 season. He finished as the top scorer in all three competitions, scoring 27, 15, and two goals respectively.
Ballon d'Or favorite Karim Benzema impresses with remarkable display against Barcelona
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti named Karim Benzema in his starting XI for the clash against Barcelona on Sunday (October 16). The Ballon d'Or favorite produced a stunning performance, scoring a goal in an eventual 3-1 victory for Real Madrid.
In the 12th minute, Vinicius Junior dashed into the Barcelona box drawing away several defenders with him. The goalkeeper made himself big and blocked the shot which fell into Benzema’s path. The Frenchman let fly from 15 yards out and found the back of the net, evading multiple defenders on Barcelona’s goal line.
The five-time Champions League winner once again rippled the netting in the 52nd minute, turning Jules Kounde inside out before curling the ball home from outside the box with his left foot. Unfortunately, he was offside in the build-up, causing the goal to be ruled out.
Federico Valverde and Rodrygo scored the other two goals for Real Madrid while Ferran Torres netted for Barcelona.
