Karim Benzema

Karim Mostafa Benzema popularly known as Karim Benzema is a French footballer especially known for his striking ability and powerful scoring speed. He plays for Spanish club Real Madrid and the French National football team. He was born on 19 December, 1987 in Lyon city of France. He has been acknowledged with the French Player of the year award for his splendid performances of 2011, 2012. He has made several international appearances garnering wide accolades.

Early life

His career in football started from his native place Bron Terraillion SC at a tender age of eight. He caught the notice of bigger clubs of the city during his under-10 match against Lyon Youth academy scoring vivacious two goals to win. He was soon approached by the Lyon officials in 1990 and joined the club’s academy after the consent of Bron Terraillion. He was part of Lyon’s academy at the age of nine. He was a reverent and diligent student in the school.

Career

During the domestic league for under-16 youth players, he managed to score thirty eight goals in the Championnat National des 16 ans. He was soon part of the club’s reserve team playing in the Championnat de France amateur crusading second spot in the group. He made his first professional appearance on 11 December, 2004 playing as a substitute registering thrilling win. He also made six appearances for Lyon winning the league title. He was also part of UEFA Champions league and played in the final match against Norwegian club. He was part of 2006 Trophee des Champions and played against Paris Saint German.

Lyon won the first double under Benzema in UEFA Champions league registering six goals in six Coupe de France matches. He had extended his contract with the Lyon on 13 March 2008 reigning as the highest paid footballer of France. He was rewarded with the League 1 player of the year same consecutive year as he was the league’s top scorer. He was transferred to Spanish club Real Madrid on 1 July 2009 with the fee of 35 million dollar. He made his debue for Real Madrid on 20 July against Irish club. He was part of several international matches such as France youth International, 2004 UEFA European Under-17 Football Championship.

Personal life

Benzema was born to Hafid Benzema, father and Wahida Djebbara, mother of Algerian descent. His grandfather Da Lakehal Benzema had migrated from the village of Tighzert to Lyon in 1950. He is the third youngest among his eight siblings. He celebrates the holy festival of Ramadan, fasting during the Islamic holy month. He has been promoting the brand of Adidas making significant appearances in the television for the brand.

Awards and achievements

He has received several appreciation and honors such as Bravo award 2008, French player of the year 2011, 2012, and Trophee des Champions 2006, 2007 etc.

Other details

His height is 1.87m and weight is 80 kg. His salary is five million Euros. He currently plays for Real Madrid C.F and France national football team as a striker.