Zinedine Zidane backs 'little brother' Karim Benzema to win Ballon d'Or
Speaking to Marca, Zinedine Zidane said: "Karim Benzema is like the little brother I never had. We send each other messages.
"I'm not surprised by what he's doing. I knew he was capable of that. He has always been very good at Real Madrid. He's simply exceptional.
"Will he win the Ballon d'Or this year? Top prize? Not only do I think that, but the whole world says it."
Benzema is widely believed to be the favourite to win the 2022 Ballon d'Or after winning the La Liga and the Champions League with Real Madrid last season.
The 34-year-old scored 44 goals in 46 games across all competitions at club level in 2021/22, including 10 goals in Champions League play-off matches.
Source: Marca