The father of Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema has acclaimed team mate Cristiano Ronaldo for his efforts in befriending his son and acting as a mentor, which he said helped him find his feet at the club.
Benzema signed to Real Madrid from French Ligue 1 side Lyon in the summer of 2009, just weeks after Ronaldo stunned the world with his sensational mammoth-money move from Manchester United.
The pair instantly clicked and spent much time in training together, becoming close pals in the process.
In an interview with Spanish press, Benzema’s father Hadif publicly praised Ronaldo for being a friend and mentor-figure to his son, and said Benzema looks up to the Portuguese star.
He said Karim’s ultimate idol is Brazil legend Ronaldo Nazario, whose Brazilian flair style he loves to imitate.
Hadif told Globoesporte: “Karim likes Cristiano, he has helped him a lot with his training and adapting to the club.
“They arrived at the same time and immediately became friends.
“Karim has a Brazilian-style talent, he always wanted to be like Ronaldo (Nazario), to imitate his passes and play with a similar style.
“Since he was a child he was gifted with the ball.”
Earlier this week the French International forward was hailed as ‘world-class’ by France boss Didier Deschamps, having displayed top form in Brazil and added four goals to the tally in his national team’s pursuit of World Cup glory this summer.
Benzema’s father likened the player to French historical leader Napoleon, saying he wants to lead within his team but will always work for the team rather than for himself.
“Napoleon never fought alone, always led an army. Karim wants to do the same, but will always play for the team.”