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Karim Benzema talks Real Madrid, Clasico, Ballon d'Or dreams and how he's getting better with age

MADRID -- Maybe the secret is in the drink. Karim Benzema has just finished training at the Ciudad Deportiva, Real Madrid's training ground in Valdebebas, on the outskirts of the Spanish capital, not far from Barajas airport. After changing into a neat black trousers / amber polo designer combo for his interview with ESPN, he drains a bottle of coconut water.

It's a typically hot day in Madrid, and his choice of drink might surprise you. Not if you know Benzema. Coconut water is filled with potassium, sodium and magnesium, a perfect way to hydrate after training or after a match.