Real Madrid: Realistic statistical expectations for the frontline in 2021-22

KARIM BENZEMA

Karim Benzema is on the back of a stellar individual campaign this season- scoring 30 goals in all competitions for Real Madrid. His performances this season have earned him a national team call up after five years since being suspended from the French team.

The 33-year-old has been in fine goalscoring form for the past three seasons and will look to continue his magic next season as well.

Under Carlo Ancelotti in the past, Benzema played as the creator for the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale. However, with both the players out of the equation now as there’s no certainty over Bale’s future, Benzema’s role will change.

Ancelotti will want the 33-year-old to be the target man. Given his fine form in the past few years, a realistic target for next season would be 25 goals and five assists in all competitions. If the Italian does adopt a more counter-attacking strategy then achieving these numbers certainly will not be a task for Benzema.

However, given his age, Ancelotti will have to consider resting Karim against weaker sides in order to keep his legs fresh for the big games and avoid muscular overload injuries or any other muscle injuries.

Expectations- 25 goals and 5 assists.