Karim Benzema with Al-Hilal: The secret behind his nickname "Koko" and his brilliance during Ramadan
In a spontaneous interaction reflecting his rapid integration into his new club, veteran French star Karim Benzema, striker for Saudi Arabia's Al-Hilal, responded to a series of rapid-fire questions posed to him as part of a "Q&A" segment on the club's official social media accounts. Benzema's answers – as his fans affectionately call him – were a blend of humor and seriousness, revealing personal and professional aspects of the Ballon d'Or winner's life.
Secrets of "Coco" and Saudi coffee
During the brief interview, Benzema revealed a lighthearted side of his personal life, mentioning that his favorite nickname, used by those close to him, is "Coco." He didn't stop at nicknames, however, but also touched on his integration into Saudi culture, confirming that his constant companion to Saudi coffee is dates, reflecting his remarkable adaptation to local customs since arriving in the Kingdom. This cultural integration is a crucial part of the Roshan League's project to attract international stars, who then become ambassadors for Saudi culture worldwide.
The magic of Ramadan and its historical brilliance
In a striking response regarding the timing of his peak performance, the French star affirmed that he delivers his best technical and physical form during the holy month of Ramadan. This statement is based on remarkable statistics and historical facts from the player's career. The world remembers the 2022 Champions League campaign when Benzema led Real Madrid to victory while fasting, scoring a historic hat-trick against Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain during Ramadan. This demonstrates the player's exceptional mental and spiritual discipline, where fasting becomes a driving force for delivering outstanding performances rather than a physical obstacle.
The Ballon d'Or... a dream come true
When asked about the moment he would most like to show himself as a child, Benzema didn't hesitate to choose the moment he won the Ballon d'Or as the best player in the world. That moment was the culmination of a long journey of patience and perseverance. Benzema is a living example of determination, having reached the pinnacle of footballing glory at a relatively late age, making him a role model for younger generations, demonstrating that hard work pays off, even if it takes time.
A resounding transfer and a fiery start with the leader
It's worth noting that Karim Benzema caused a major stir in sporting circles when he transferred to Al-Hilal from Al-Ittihad during the last winter transfer window, in a deal described as a stunning surprise that shifted the balance of power in the league. The French star didn't need long to prove his worth in the blue jersey, participating in just two matches, during which he managed to score three goals and provide a crucial assist, sending a strong message to his rivals that his scoring instinct remains undiminished and that his journey with "Al-Za'eem" (the leader) could be a new chapter of achievements.
