Karim Mostafa Benzema is a French international footballer who plays for Spanish club Real Madrid in La Liga. Described as an immensely-talented striker, Benzema is known for his technical ability, powerful style of play, and vast goal-scoring ability. Benzema began his football career with local club Bron Terraillon. In 1996, he joined the biggest club in the city Olympique Lyonnais and, subsequently, came through the club's youth academy. Benzema made his professional debut in the 2004–05 season and appeared sporadically in his first three seasons as Lyon won three titles in that span. In the 2007–08 season, Benzema became a starter and had a breakthrough year scoring over 30 goals as Lyon won its seventh straight league title. For his performances, he was named the National Union of Professional Footballers (UNFP) Ligue 1 Player of the Year and named to the organization's Team of the Year. Benzema was also the league's top scorer and given the Bravo Award by Italian magazine Guerin Sportivo. In July 2009, Benzema signed a six-year contract with Spanish outfit Real Madrid. In December 2011, he was named the French Player of the Year for his performances during the calendar year. Benzema is a former French youth international and has represented his nation from under-17 level onwards. He was part of the team that won the 2004 UEFA European Under-17 Football Championship.
