OFFICIAL: Karim Benzema renews his contract with Real Madrid until 2021.
Benzema was born in the city of Lyon and 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. 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.
After another season at Lyon, in July 2009, Benzema moved to Real Madrid in a transfer fee worth over €35 million ($50 million), and signed a six-year contract. After struggling to establish himself in his debut season with the club, in the ensuing two seasons, Benzema reached prominence, scoring 32 goals en route to helping Real Madrid win the Copa del Rey in 2011 and the 2011–12 edition of La Liga. He has been named French Player of the Year three times for his performances in 2011, 2012 and 2014.
Until now, Benzema has completed 361 appearances for Real Madrid, achieving 181 goals and 103 assists and has helped Los Blancos win 13 different trophies , including three Champions League titles in the recent four years.
In the international level, Benzema made his French senior international debut in March 2007. Until now, the bomber has earned over 80 caps and represented France at three major international tournaments: the 2008 and 2012 editions of the UEFA European Football Championship and the 2014 FIFA World Cup.