Karim Benzema, Legend of Real Madrid and current Estrella del Al-Ittihad, has surprised fans with their recent statements to the media. In an interview that has generated a stir, the French striker said that the current white team is “much stronger” than the one that formed with Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale, the dreaded trio known as the “BBC”. These words have unleashed a debate among football followers, who wonder if today Real Madrid today exceeds that scoring machine that dominated Europe. In addition, Benzema did not spare in a particular player, ensuring that his skills are “even better” than his and that, thanks to him, Real Madrid will conquer the league this season.
The “BBC” – composed by Benzema, Ronaldo and Bale – marked a golden era for Real Madrid. Between 2014 and 2018, the club conquered four titles of the Champions League, three of them consecutive, something unpublished in the modern history of football. The combination of Ronaldo’s scoring power, Bale’s speed and overflow, and Benzema’s tactical intelligence seemed unbeatable. However, Benzema argues that the current team, led by Carlo Ancelotti, has a higher level. “This Real Madrid has a perfect mix of youth, experience and hunger for titles. It is a complete team, with a winning mentality that I did not see even in our best time,” he said.
The French highlighted the depth of the current staff, mentioning the defensive strength, creativity in the midfield and the offensive power led by figures such as Vinícius Jr., Rodrygo and the newcomer Kylian Mbappé. However, it was his praise to Jude Bellingham, the young English midfielder, which most caught his attention. “Bellingham is a phenomenon. It has everything: vision, technique, leadership and a mentality that makes it special. His skills are even better than mine at my best. With him, Real Madrid will not only win the league, but can master Europe for years,” said Benzema.
These words are not a small time coming from a player who was key in the successes of Real Madrid for more than a decade. Benzema, who won the Golden Ball in 2022, is known for his humility and for speaking with sincerity. His admiration for Bellingham reflects the impact that English has had since his arrival at the club in 2023. In its first season, Bellingham became the midfield engine, providing goals, assists and a presence that reminds of the great icons of the club, such as Zinedine Zidane.
But is this Real Madrid stronger than that of the “BBC”? The numbers support, in part, Benzema’s opinion. In the 2024-2025 season, the white team has shown an overwhelming domain in the league, leading the table with a colorful and effective football. The incorporation of Mbappé has further raised the level of the attack, while players such as Eduardo Camavinga and Aurélien Tchouaméni have strengthened the midfield. In addition, the defense, led by Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba, has been almost impenetrable.
However, some fans and analysts are not entirely convinced. The “BBC” not only won titles, but did it with a style that intimidated its rivals. Cristiano Ronaldo, with his ability to score in any situation, was a guarantee of goals, while Bale contributed moments of genius in key matches. Benzema, on the other hand, was the glue that linked to the trio, sacrificing himself for the team and creating spaces for his teammates. Can Real Madrid match that chemistry?
The truth is that today’s team has a promising future. With a mixture of young and veteran talents, Real Madrid seems to be building a new dynasty. Benzema’s words are not only supporting the Ancelotti project, but also recognition of the new generation of stars that is taking the club to the top. If Bellingham and company meet the expectations, Real Madrid could be entering an era even more glorious than that of the “BBC”. For now, fans are looking forward to seeing if Benzema’s predictions come true and if the league dyes white again.
