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3 strikers who could replace Karim Benzema at Real Madrid

By Maximus Polek

MADRID, SPAIN - FEBRUARY 2: Karim Benzema of Real Madrid during the La Liga Santander match between Real Madrid v Valencia at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on February 2, 2023 in Madrid Spain (Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images)
MADRID, SPAIN - FEBRUARY 2: Karim Benzema of Real Madrid during the La Liga Santander match between Real Madrid v Valencia at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on February 2, 2023 in Madrid Spain (Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images) /
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Karim Benzema is back in the treatment room yet again after suffering his eighth injury of the season. He is struggling with what is believed to be ankle discomfort. The Frenchman was absent from training on Thursday, and has been left out of Real Madrid’s squad that will take on Espanyol this weekend.

It is clear that Benzema is suffering from fitness issues this season. With massive games against Barcelona and Liverpool coming up next week, Los Blancos won’t be taking any risks with their captain.

Benzema is 35 now, and it is starting to look like age is finally catching up to him. Real Madrid can’t risk falling behind other top European clubs when it comes to their number 9 and should consider looking at long-term options to replace the Frenchman up top.

There are several players who could take up that role at Santiago Bernabeu. But at this point of time, three stand out.

3 strikers who could replace Karim Benzema at Real Madrid

Here are three strikers who could prove to be the long-term replacement for Benzema at Real Madrid, with the Frenchman now 35 years of age:

Kylian Mbappe

Real Madrid
Kylian Mbappe, Paris Saint-Germain. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP) (Photo by FRANCK FIFE/AFP via Getty Images) /

Mbappe seems destined to be a Real Madrid player one day, and after PSG’s elimination from the UEFA Champions League, now could be the time to make a move. In the eyes of many fans, the French World Cup winner is the next superstar wanted to grace the pitch at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Under the profile of more of a general “forward” rather than a classic number 9, Mbappe has been successful in becoming the highest goalscorer in PSG history. According to stats from Transfermarkt, in his 248 appearances across all competitions for the French club, he has registered 201 goals and 96 assists.

Mbappe brings a dynamic range of skill, speed, and strength, which could help transform Real Madrid’s forward line. Obviously a world-class player, he could be the one to team with Vinicius Junior for Los Blancos’ future.

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