"The Love Is Different" - Benteke on Villa, MLS, and Messi
Despite scoring 23 goals—three more than Messi, along with fellow MLS stars Luis Suarez and Denis Bouanga—DC United's overall performance meant they missed out on the postseason. However, Benteke is determined and has committed to another year with the club, aiming to return in top form for the 2025 season starting in February.
Hard Work Over Luck
Benteke acknowledges the remarkable longevity of Messi and Ronaldo, who are both four or five years older than him. "They still play, so who are we not to push ourselves?" he told BBC Sport. He emphasizes the importance of hard work and body care, stating, "It’s not luck. It’s hard work. They look after their bodies, which is something we can all do." He recognizes that while he may not possess the same innate qualities, elite athletes can still maintain their physical condition.
Embracing Normalcy
As Benteke transitions into a new phase of his career, he finds contentment in the anonymity that comes with playing in the US. "When you are younger, you want people to stop you in the street," he reflects. "But when you get older, you know it is your job." He appreciates the opportunity to live a more ordinary life outside of football, enjoying time with his family without the constant spotlight. “This year will be my second Christmas [in the US]. To be around my family and your kids is something you appreciate,” he shares.
Despite the quieter life, Benteke remains connected to European football and closely follows the performances of his former club, Aston Villa, in this season's Champions League. He regards Villa as a "huge club" and cherishes his time there, saying, “They haven’t been in the Champions League for a while, so to see them playing well at Villa Park on a Tuesday or Wednesday is something nice.”
National Team Aspirations
Although Benteke has not played for Belgium since 2022 and was not selected for Euro 2024, he holds on to the hope of representing his country again. "I am still playing in a very good league and I am still a professional, so why should I retire from the national team?" he questions. He doesn't feel obsessed or pressured about returning but believes as long as he continues to play, the door remains open for national team selection.
In his view, retirement from club football will dictate the end of his national team career: "It’s the day I retire from my club that will mean it is also the end for the national team."
Christian Benteke's journey reflects a deep passion for football, tempered with the wisdom that comes from experience. As he looks ahead to the next chapter with DC United, he remains motivated by the legends of the game while embracing the love and support from his past, particularly from Aston Villa.
