Benzema Reveals His All-Time XI — and Leaves Out Major Real Madrid Legends

Creating an all-time XI is never easy—you’re destined to leave out legends. For a player, the pressure is even greater, since former teammates might question your choices. That’s exactly the situation Karim Benzema has walked into after revealing his ideal lineup, one that excludes several Real Madrid icons.

Benzema shared the pitch with some of the greatest footballers of the modern era during his time at Real Madrid, especially during the historic three consecutive Champions League triumphs. Yet the French striker chose to leave out names like Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos—two midfielders widely regarded as among the best of their generation.

These omissions caught immediate attention, given their global impact. But the surprise doesn’t end there: Benzema also left out long-time teammates such as Dani Carvajal, Iker Casillas, and even himself. Karim does not include Karim.

Notably, he only selected players from the 21st century, perhaps prioritizing those he watched or played with. As a result, legends like Pelé, Maradona, and Alfredo Di Stéfano are absent—but Cristiano Ronaldo, Zinedine Zidane, and Ronaldo Nazário all make the cut, giving Real Madrid a strong presence.

Benzema’s Ideal XI Full of Surprises

Starting in goal, Benzema opts for Manuel Neuer over Casillas or Buffon. In defense, he includes Dani Alves alongside a trio of Real Madrid greats: Sergio Ramos, Pepe, and Marcelo.

His midfield choices reveal his French bias, with Paul Pogba being the most surprising selection. The other two spots go to Ronaldinho and Zidane; although Benzema played under Zizou as a coach, his inclusion recognizes his brilliance as a player.

In attack, Benzema avoids the eternal rivalry debate by selecting both Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, each occupying a flank. And for the No. 9 position, he chooses Ronaldo Nazário—ranking the Brazilian ahead of himself.

Benzema’s “Little Trick”

As expected, it’s impossible to include every legend in just one lineup. But Benzema found a workaround: he added three substitutes as honorable mentions.

Modrić, Iniesta, and Benzema himself are listed on the bench—two Ballon d’Or winners and the scorer of Spain’s World Cup–winning goal all get a minimal nod.

Even so, the lineup has sparked plenty of debate, especially over the names left out.