Karim Benzema was awarded the trophy for UEFA player of the year at the Champions League draw ceremony in Istanbul lasy Thursday, the 34-year-old Real Madrid striker’s first major individual accolade. Benzema is also the overwhelming favourite to claim the Ballon d’Or and although he has to wait for individual recognition despite a glittering career at the Bernabéu, the Frenchman is enjoying the moment and attributes his form of late to having to assume responsibility for the team following the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo in 2018.

“It is a trophy that makes me very excited,” Benzema said of the Ballon d’Or during an exclusive press conference for various media including Portugal’s A Bola. “Why did it take me so long to win individual awards? I don’t know, but I’m a better player now, I play better football. This was the best season of my career. Every time I step onto the pitch I’m not thinking about individual achievements.”

Benzema: “When Cristiano left Real Madrid, I had to step up” | FIFA 23 ratings leak: Real Madrid