Karim Benzema Biography: Karim Mostafa Benzema, born on December 19, 1987, is a French professional footballer who plays as a striker and serves as the captain of Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad. Widely regarded as one of the greatest strikers in football history, Benzema is known for his exceptional technical ability, vision, and versatility on the pitch. During his illustrious tenure with Real Madrid, he won 25 major trophies, including four La Liga titles, three Copa del Rey trophies, and five UEFA Champions League titles. Having scored over 500 goals for both club and country, Benzema is Real Madrid’s second all-time leading goalscorer and also holds the record as their top assist provider.
Karim Benzema Biography
As of 2025, Karim Benzema’s net worth is estimated at $104 million, according to Forbes. Currently playing for Al-Ittihad in the Saudi Pro League, his income stems from both a massive club salary and numerous endorsement deals. Benzema reportedly earns an annual salary of approximately £86 million (around $110 million USD) from Al-Ittihad, as reported by beIN SPORTS.
Karim Benzema Biography 2025 Details
Full name | Karim Mostafa Benzema | ||
---|---|---|---|
Date of birth | 19 December 1987 | ||
Place of birth | Lyon, France | ||
Height | 1.85 m (6 ft 1 in) | ||
Position(s) | Striker | ||
Current team
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Al-Ittihad | ||
Number | 9 | ||
Category | Football Biographies |
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About Karim Benzema
Karim Mostafa Benzema is a French professional footballer who plays as a striker for and captains Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad. Regarded as one of the greatest strikers of all time, Benzema is a creative forward known for his technical skills, vision and versatility on the field.
Karim Benzema Achievements
This places him among the highest-paid athletes in the world. Beyond his lucrative contract, Benzema also benefits from high-profile brand endorsements, contributing significantly to his overall earnings. Throughout his career, Benzema has amassed 25 major trophies with Real Madrid, including four La Liga titles and five UEFA Champions League titles. He also captained Real Madrid to a Saudi Pro League title in the 2024–25 season.
Karim Benzema Wiki
- Born: 19 December 1987 (age 37 years), Lyon, France
- Current team: Al-Ittihad Club (#9 / Forward)
- Dates joined: 2023 (Al-Ittihad Club) ·
- Spouse: Cora Gauthier (m. 2016–2022)
- Siblings: Gressy Benzema, Nafissa Benzema, Sabri Benzema ·
- Parents: Wahida Djebbara, Hafid Benzema
- Salary: 10 crores EUR (2025)
Club Career
Karim Benzema began his football journey at the age of eight with his local club, Bron Terraillon. During his time there, he was affectionately nicknamed “Coco” by his peers. His talent quickly became evident when he scored two goals in an under-10 match against the Lyon youth academy, catching the attention of Lyon scouts. Although Bron Terraillon’s then-president, Serge Santa Cruz, initially declined Lyon’s direct approach to sign him, a conversation with Benzema’s father led to the club allowing him to attend a trial.
Following a successful assessment, Benzema officially joined Lyon’s youth academy. Benzema progressed swiftly through Lyon’s youth ranks. While still a teenager, he served as a ballboy for the senior team and was known in school as a quiet, respectful student. At the under-16 level, he had an outstanding season, scoring 38 goals in the Championnat National des 16 ans, France’s national league for under-16 players.
Karim Benzema Facts
Where does Karim Benzema live? And how much money does Karim Benzema earn?
Birth Date | 19-12-1987 |
Heritage/origin | French |
Ethnicity | Arab |
Religion – believes in God? | Islam |
Residence | He lives together in a house in Madrid, España. |
Karim Benzema Net Worth 2025
Estimated Net Worth | 104 million Euro |
Yearly Salary | 5 million |
Product Endorsements | BWin & Nike |
Colleagues | Sergio Ramos, James Rodríguez & Gareth Bale |
Management | Arsene Wenger |
Cars
Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
- Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren - ($Unknown)
- Bugatti Veyron - ($1.5 million)
Karim Benzema: Boyfriend, Dating, Family & Friends
Who is Karim Benzema dating in 2025?
Relationship status | Dating (Since 2012) |
Sexuality | Straight |
Current Boyfriend of Karim Benzema | Sarah Williams |
Ex-girlfriends or ex-wives | |
Has any kids? | No |
Family
Names of father, mother, kids, brothers & sisters:
- Hafid Benzema (Father)
- Wahida Benzema (Mother)
- Gressy Benzema (Brother)
Friends
- Cristiano Ronaldo
Skin, Hair & Eye Color
This arrogant talented football player originating from Lyon, France has a athletic body & oval face type. Karim Benzema makes commercials for DSquared², but actually uses: DSquared².
Hair color | Brown/Black |
Hair type | Straight |
Hair Length | very short hair |
Hairstyle | crew cut |
Distinct feature | smile |
Skin Tone/Complexion | Type II: Fair skin |
Skin Type | Normal |
Beard or Mustache | Beard |
Eye Color | Brown |
Does Karim Benzema smoke? | No, never |
Height, Weight, Body Measurements, Tattoos & Style
Karim Benzema endorses clothing brands like Nike & Adidas. And wears brands like Nike & Adidas.
Height | 184 cm |
Weight | 83 kilo |
Clothing style | sporty |
Favorite colors | white |
Feet size | 11 |
Biceps | 30 |
Waist size | 100 |
Buste size | 135 |
Butt size | 115 |
Does Karim Benzema have a tattoo? | No |
FAQs
How did Karim Benzema get noticed by Lyon?
Benzema caught the eye of Lyon scouts after scoring two goals in an under-10 match against their youth academy while playing for his local club, Bron Terraillon.
What was Karim Benzema’s nickname during his early football years?
During his time at Bron Terraillon, Benzema was affectionately nicknamed “Coco” by his teammates and friends.
When did Karim Benzema join Lyon’s youth academy?
He joined Lyon’s academy after a successful trial arranged through discussions between Lyon officials and Benzema’s father.
How many goals did Benzema score at the under-16 level for Lyon?
Karim Benzema scored an impressive 38 goals in the Championnat National des 16 ans, France’s top under-16 league.
Was Karim Benzema a ballboy before turning professional?
Yes, while rising through Lyon’s youth system, Benzema also served as a ballboy for the club’s senior team matches.
How many goals did Benzema score for Lyon’s reserve team?
During the 2004–05 season, Benzema scored 10 goals for Lyon’s reserve team in the Championnat de France amateur, becoming their top scorer during the autumn campaign.