Karim Benzema has revealed how Cristiano Ronaldo inspired his ultra-prolific campaign for Real Madrid this season.
The 34-year-old scored an incredible 44 goals in 46 games in all competitions as he helped his side to La Liga and Champions League glory.
He's enjoyed a superb term having 'dissected everything' about ex-teammate Ronaldo, saying the Manchester United star has inspired his success.
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Benzema explains how he studied Ronaldo's game during their nine-year spell together in Spain, but admitted that he will never be able to replicate the 37-year-old's lofty achievements.
Speaking to Onze Mondial, he said: "When I watched him, I tried to understand everything he did: the goals, the shots, the passes, the ball controI.
"I dissected everything about Ronaldo. That’s why I can say: it’s impossible to achieve the same."
Benzema bagged 27 league goals and a staggering 15 goals in the Champions League, almost single-handedly knocking out Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea and Manchester City.
He's the favourite to win the Ballon d'Or following his heroics in Europe and he likes his chances to land the prestigious award.
"Because I'm having a great season, I think. I was present during many important matches, I managed differences," he added.
"All this makes people recognise my performance. And then, I was consistent throughout the season."
Asked if he'd vote for himself, he replied: "Yes, of course, because I love my game, I love what I do on the pitch. I play the football that I always wanted to play.
"The way I play on the pitch represents my vision of football. For example, if I saw another player doing what I do on a pitch, I would vote for them."
Benzema has stepped out of Ronaldo's shadow and established himself as a Real legend.
But he's remained humble enough to acknowledge the role his former club colleague has played in his goal-scoring exploits this season.
Topics: Karim Benzema, Real Madrid, Football, Cristiano Ronaldo
Nasir Jabbar