(Football news) Karim Benzema has officially signed a contract extension for Real Madrid till 2023. The 33 year old joined Madrid in 2009 from Lyon and has since then amassed 560 appearances scoring 281 times. After the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo, Benzema took over the scoring mantle and is playing even better with advancing age. Last season Benzema almost single handedly took Los Blancos to the La Liga crown only to lose out to Atletico Madrid on the last day of the season.

Last season, Karim Benzema won the La Liga player of the season as he scored 23 goals in the league but it was his all round play that got rewarded. With a new manager at the helm, Carlo Ancelotti would be hoping that the Frenchman replicates his form this season as the squad is going through a major rebuild.

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If Real Madrid are to mount a serious title charge then Benzema has to play a pivotal role in guiding the team to success. This season he has to arguably have his best season if Real are to challenge for the title. Florentino Perez would be hoping that keeping their talisman for two more years would help the youngsters learn from him and eventually take up that goal scoring mantle.

With Sergio Ramos leaving and Marcelo not featuring as much, Benzema will take up the added responsibility of captaining the team. Only time will tell us if Benzema can inspire Los Blancos to another title.