Karim Benzema: does he deserve the 2021 Ballon d'Or?

The argument for Karim Benzema as the deserved winner told another turn when the French international scored a spectacular goal to help France clinch the UEFA Nations League weeks ago. Many believed he's done enough to deserve this. 

The elite sharp shooter has been an integral part of his side coming second behind last season's highest goal scorer with 23 goals for the club in La Liga and already topping the goal chart this season. He contributed to 30 goals last season,his second best season in front of goal, even though Real Madrid went trophyless.

He believes he deserves to win the Ballon d'Or as it has been his childhood dream to win it and like his idol Ronaldo and Zidane. Zidane believes he deserves to win the prestigious award and said "He deserves to win the Ballon d'Or. He is an incredible player," Zidane told France's Telefoot on Sunday. "I had the great honour of coaching him.

"He knows how to do everything on the pitch. He's above the rest. I hope he can be rewarded with this Ballon d'Or."  

Brazilian great Ronaldo threw his support behind him describing him as the best striker on the planet. Without a doubt, my candidate for the Ballon d’Or is Benzema,’ he said.