Karim Benzema has been called a "more complete player" than fellow Frenchman Thierry Henry and is a "real leader" according to former Lyon striker Sidney Govou.
Benzema has enjoyed one of his best seasons at Real Madrid, netting 21 goals in La Liga as his side won the title for a 34th time.
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The 32-year-old narrowly missed out on the Pichichi Trophy, which went to Lionel Messi, but this season will still go down as a highlight in his career.
Govou has now made the claims that Benzema, who also played for Lyon before moving to Spain, has passed Arsenal legend Henry as an all-round player.
"I think he has largely the level of Thierry," Govou explained to L'Equipe per Goal.
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"Thierry really impressed me because he was not only a fast player but he had the ball. But Karim is more complete.
"He also has a kind of presence because he is smaller and less athletic. Karim has always been a top player. If you love football, it's impossible not to love him."
It is an incredibly bold claim, considering Henry's status in the game.
He helped a whole generation of fans fall in love with football with his unmatched technique and electric speed while also being part of Arsene Wenger's 'Invincibles' in the 2003/2004 season.
However, Benzema's ability to lead 'Los Blancos' alongside captain Sergio Ramos means he is a "real leader" according to Govou.
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When asked about the title victory, he replied: "I'm not surprised. I always thought he was one of the best European strikers.
"He had small difficulties at the start at Real because he had to win. But he has taken on an incredible dimension over the years.
"And a little more after the departure of [Cristiano] Ronaldo. He has new responsibilities, he's a real leader."
Benzema's season has resulted in Madrid president Florentino Perez calling for his striker to win the Ballon d'Or, before it was announced the award would not be handed out this year.
Benzema should be the Ballon d'Or," he bluntly stated per Daily Mail.
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"I have not seen any player have as good a year as him."
Manager Zinedine Zidane also echoed the sentiments after Madrid were confirmed champions.
"In football, everyone can have a say," Zidane said. "For me, my players are the best. Karim is not only this year, he has done very well for many years.
"The Ballon d'Or is won by only one, and everyone can comment, but for me all my players deserve it."
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Do you think Karim Benzema is a better all-round player than Thierry Henry?
Let us know in the comments.
Featured Image Credit: PA ImagesTopics: Football News, Football, Arsenal, Karim Benzema, France, thierry henry, Real Madrid