How can we make Karim Benzema behave like the striker and number 9 of the best team of the last century? Last season he passed almost undercover when competing the spot against the 16th season of Madrid idol Raul Gonzalez and a red hot campaign of Argentinian Gonzalo Higuain. I would not say it was understandable, because you don't pay 30MM Euros for a player that can't compete in the big leagues, but the organization gave him another chance this season, that is for sure. Since December, Higuain injured due to a herniated disk, Benzema has been used as the only striker available and therefore the expectations raised high about the ex Lyon. He scored 2 hatricks but in non-transcendent games and, rather than that, Karim unfortunately hasn't showed much, not hunger, not sacrifice nor results.
Karim Benzema has had more chances in the starter line-up than any other striker in the last 10 years on Real Madrid. I Remember players like Samuel Etoo, Michael Owen, Portillo, Soldado, Huntelaar whose always fought a spot against superstars like Morientes, Ronaldo, Robinho, Van Nisteelroy. These strikers always delivered 110% during the few minutes on the pitch and even scored important goals as substitutes.The frenchman has only scored one important and elaborated goal, yesterday's goal, where we all start thinking "he finally broke the ice!, from now on we will see a better striker". But after the nice and skilled goal, he continue to miss the same opportunities he has been missing since he arrived in Madrid.
Only one player has had a similar disappointing campaign as striker and he was Antonio Cassano, an attacker that never woke up and never delivered the quality the Bernabeu was looking for. I think Benzema is now on the same category.
So, can we say Karim Benzema is the striker Real Madrid needs to remain unbeaten for the rest of the season, to fight La Copa del Rey semifinals and Champions league Quarter finals? I would say no, but only Mourinho will know.
