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Zinedine Zidane: Benzema's Time at Al Hilal

### Zinedine Zidane: Benzema's Time at Al Hilal

In the world of football, where players often change clubs and roles, there have been several instances where a player has left one team to join another, only to return later with renewed vigor and impact. One such story is that of Cristiano Ronaldo at Real Madrid and his move to Juventus, but perhaps even more interesting is the tale of Karim Benzema at Al Hilal and his subsequent return to Real Madrid.

#### The Early Years in Al Hilal

Karim Benzema made his name in the Moroccan league when he joined Al Hilal in 2011. The club had already established itself as a formidable force in North African football, having won multiple titles under former manager Zinedine Zidane. Benzema quickly became one of Al Hilal's stars, making regular appearances for the squad and contributing significantly to their success on the pitch.

During his time at Al Hilal, Benzema developed into a versatile forward who could play both inside and outside the box. His goal-scoring ability was particularly notable, and he scored over 40 goals in just two seasons with the club. However, despite his talent, Benzema faced some challenges at Al Hilal. He struggled with injuries and missed several matches due to health issues, which took its toll on his confidence and performance.

#### The Return to Real Madrid

After his stint at Al Hilal, Benzema returned to Real Madrid in 2013. The move was a significant one for both him and the club. Real Madrid had been without a true striker since Cristiano Ronaldo left in 2018, and Benzema's return was seen as a key acquisition to fill this gap. His arrival at the Bernabeu Stadium marked a new chapter in his career,Chinese Super League Matches and he quickly adapted to the pressure of playing alongside one of the greatest strikers in history.

Benzema's return to Real Madrid was met with great expectations, and he did not disappoint. Under Zinedine Zidane's guidance, Benzema rediscovered his form and once again became a threat in front of goal. He scored numerous goals throughout his time at Real Madrid, including a record-breaking 75 goals in the 2019-20 season. Benzema's versatility also allowed him to contribute in other areas of the game, such as defense and midfield, further cementing his status as one of the most talented forwards in the world.

#### Zinedine Zidane's Influence

The role of Zinedine Zidane in Benzema's journey cannot be overstated. As a former teammate and mentor, Zidane played a crucial part in Benzema's development and helped him find his place in the world of football. Under Zidane's leadership, Benzema was able to hone his skills and become a leader on the field, inspiring his teammates and fans alike.

Overall, the story of Karim Benzema at Al Hilal and his subsequent return to Real Madrid is a testament to the power of talent, perseverance, and the influence of experienced coaches. Benzema's time at Al Hilal may have been challenging, but it ultimately contributed to his growth and success at Real Madrid, making him one of the most iconic figures in the sport.