Karim Benzema is the biggest contender to win the 2022 Ballon d'Or. Who knows if the French forward of Real Madrid will finally be recognized as the best player of the year! However, Benzema, who scored 15 goals in 12 games to lead Real Madrid to their 14th Champions League title, has received recognition today. The 34-year-old French star has been named the best player of the 2021-22 season in the UEFA Champions League.
Vinicius Jr., whose only goal Real won against Liverpool in last Saturday's final, has also been recognized. The Brazilian winger has been named the best young player of the season. Vinicius, 21, has scored four goals and eight assists in the Champions League in the 2021-22 season.
UEFA also announced the best XI of the season today. Four players, including Benzema-Vinicius in the XI, are champions of Real. Runners-up Liverpool also got four places in the XI. Chelsea, Manchester City and PSG have one player each in the top XI.
The best XI of the season in the Champions League
Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois (Real Madrid).
Defenders: Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool), Antonio Rudigar (Chelsea), Virgil von Dyke (Liverpool), Andy Robertson (Liverpool).
Midfielders: Kevin de Bruyne (Man City), Fabinio (Liverpool), Luca Madrich (Real Madrid).
Forwards: Killian Mbappe (PSG), Karim Benzema (Real Madrid), Vinicius Jr. (Real Madrid).