Where does Karim Benzema rank among the 2022 Ballon d’Or contenders?
By Parshva Shah
6. Thibaut Courtois (GK, Real Madrid)
Thibaut Courtois is the best goalkeeper in the world. Period. And not only is he the best keeper around, but also one of the very best players in the world this season. The consistency with which the big Belgian has bailed Real Madrid time and again is outrageous. Now that I think about it, outrageous seems like an understatement.
Los Blancos would be nowhere without Thibaut Courtois (and Karim Benzema, coming back to him in a bit). He has had to make at least (emphasis on the word ‘at least’) one brilliant save in every single game. He has been the most important player for the team alongside Karim Benzema.
Courtois will hope he can carry this purple patch during the final stretch of the season as his contributions will very well decide the fate of Real Madrid.
5. Luka Modric (CM, Real Madrid)
The master of the midfield arts is showing no signs of slowing down. At 36 years and 7 months old, he is still among the most elite midfielders in the world.
Luka Modrić is putting up one of his best seasons ever as he is bringing joy to the faces of the Madridistas. And that is because he is himself enjoying playing football. “I’m enjoying it like never before. I always have, but now more than ever because you never know how long you’re going to last at this level,” said Modrić in January.
“I’m doing all I can to continue like this a few years more.”
Modrić has been influential in La Liga, playing a very important role in propelling Real Madrid at the top of the table. But it’s his exploits in the Champions League that have made his case stronger. Be it his immense showing against Paris Saint-Germain in the Round of 16 2nd leg last month, or his composed outing against Chelsea last Wednesday, the Croatian legend has done it at the biggest stage of them all, when it matters the most.
He is timeless!