Benzema: Ronaldo is more selfish than me

CAIRO – 13 November 2017: Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema has said Cristiano Ronaldo, the scorer of the historic team, is a selfish player.

“At Real, I score, but when the guy who is next to you scores 50 per season [you cannot do anything],” Benzema told Canal+. “It's different from how I played at Lyon. I just like football and winning titles. I'm having fun,” he added.

Benzema joined Real Madrid in 2009 from Lyon and since then he earned a regular place at Real Madrid's attacking line. He also formed a partnership with Madrid’s Portuguese winger, Cristiano Ronaldo.

“Ronaldo and I, we get on well. I like playing with him. He likes to play with one touch of the ball. He is more selfish than me, but that's normal. That does not bother me. Finally, it's good for the team.”

Benzema, born in Lyon, is a die-hard Lyon fan. He joined the club when he was nine years old and got promoted through the youth rankings till he represented the first team in 2004 and played there for five years.

“I did not imagine that I would stay at Real Madrid for nine years,” Benzema said. “When I was at Lyon, I imagined moving to Real to win titles. The most difficult thing in Madrid is the pressure.”

“The debate about me? It's to sell papers. I got used to it. I focus on the football. With age, I have learned to stay calm,” Benzema added.

Benzema also spoke about Jose Mourinho, Real Madrid’s former coach.

“Mourinho helped me a lot. It's his character. It stings you every time and you surpass yourself on the field,” Benzema said. “He is a good coach.”

Benzema has scored only one goal this season against Getafe in LaLiga.