Benzema Drops Bombshell: Claims Current Real Madrid Is Stronger Than the Legendary BBC Era—Praises One Player as “Better Than Me”! 

Karim Benzema, one of the greatest strikers in Real Madrid history, has ignited a wave of debate and excitement across the football world with his latest comments comparing today’s Real Madrid squad to the legendary “BBC” era he once led.

In an exclusive interview with MARCA from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, where he now plays for Al-Ittihad, the Frenchman boldly declared that the current Los Blancos team is stronger and more complete than the era of himself, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Gareth Bale.

What shocked fans even more was his effusive praise for Brazilian superstar Vinícius Júnior. According to Benzema, the dynamic winger possesses qualities that even he did not have, predicting that Vini is destined to win the Ballon d’Or.

“I told Vinícius not to listen to the noise. He’s the best in the world—and one day, he’ll prove it with the Ballon d’Or,” Benzema revealed.

His words come as Real Madrid, now coached by Xabi Alonso, gears up for the 2025/26 season opener against Osasuna on August 19. The squad is stacked with explosive talent, including Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappé, and new signings like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen, forming a balanced blend of experience and youth.

Mbappé, who inherited Benzema’s iconic number 9 shirt, ended last season as La Liga’s top scorer. But it’s Vinícius who has emerged as the heartbeat of the team, dazzling fans and opponents alike with his pace, vision, and eye for goal—earning Benzema’s highest praise.

Benzema’s statement that this new team is better than the iconic BBC trio is no small claim. That trio conquered Europe, winning four Champions League titles in five years between 2014 and 2018 and dominating La Liga during their prime.

Yet Benzema insists that the new Madrid is more versatile, more hungry, and more tactically advanced under Alonso’s leadership. “This team has everything—speed, technique, leadership, and hunger for glory,” he said.

Despite now playing in Saudi Arabia, Benzema’s bond with Real Madrid remains deep. He recently visited the squad during their stay in Jeddah for the Spanish Super Cup, embracing former teammates and reliving memories of his 14-season career with the club.

Benzema is not just talking the talk. At 37, he remains a top performer, with 10 goals in 11 matches this season and a starring role in Al-Ittihad’s Saudi Cup semifinal victory. But he admits retirement is near, with May 2025 possibly marking the end of his playing career.

Even after he hangs up his boots, Benzema’s future is linked to Real Madrid. He’s set to return as a club ambassador, helping expand Real Madrid’s presence and partnerships in the Middle East, a region of growing importance to the club’s global strategy.

With the first El Clásico of the season set for October 26 at the Santiago Bernabéu, all eyes will be on Vinícius and the new-look Madrid squad to live up to the massive expectations Benzema has placed on them.

As he gracefully exits the world stage, Benzema’s legacy is being picked up by the very player he’s now calling “better than me.” Whether or not Real Madrid surpasses the glory of the BBC era, one thing is clear—the Benzema seal of approval means something big is coming.