### Bensebaini's Playing Time at Borussia Dortmund: A Significant Period in Football History
**Introduction**
The journey of Zinedine Zidane's former teammate and fellow French international, Eric Bensebaini, is one that has been marked by both success and challenges on the pitch. His tenure at Borussia Dortmund from 2014 to 2016 was particularly noteworthy, as it saw him become a key figure for the club during their golden era under manager Jurgen Klopp. This period not only cemented his status as a top-class midfielder but also played a crucial role in shaping Borussia Dortmund's reputation as one of the most successful clubs in Europe.
**Early Career and Transition**
Before embarking on his time at Dortmund, Bensebaini had already established himself as a formidable player with the French national team. He began his professional career with Olympique Lyonnais before moving to Real Madrid in 2012. During his time at Madrid, he earned multiple accolades, including winning the UEFA Champions League twice and the Ballon d'Or in 2014. His performance at the highest level helped solidify his position as one of the world's best midfielders.
**Dortmund Era**
When Zidane decided to leave Real Madrid for Dortmund in January 2014, there were high expectations. The move was seen as a strategic decision to strengthen the club's midfield depth and bring in a player who could complement the existing talent. Bensebaini quickly adapted to the Bundesliga environment and became an integral part of the squad under Klopp's leadership.
**Key Achievements**
During his three-year stay at Dortmund, Bensebaini made significant contributions to the club's success. He was a central figure in the team's midfield, providing support to the attacking players while maintaining defensive solidity. His technical skill, tactical awareness, and ability to adapt to different formations were highly valued by Klopp. Some of his standout performances included:
- **Cup Winners**: Bensebaini was instrumental in helping Dortmund win the UEFA Europa League in 2015, which was a major achievement for the club.
- **League Title**: In the 2015-16 season, he led Dortmund to their first league title since 1997, showcasing his leadership qualities on the field.
- **Golden Boot**: Although not as prominent as some other players, Bensebaini still managed to score 10 goals during his time at Dortmund, contributing significantly to the team's scoring record.
**Impact on the Club and Team**
Bensebaini's presence at Dortmund had a profound impact on the club's culture and performance. Under Klopp's guidance, he developed into a leader who brought discipline and professionalism to the team. His experience and skills allowed him to play alongside some of the greatest talents in the game, such as Thomas Müller and Marco Reus, further enhancing the club's chances of success.
**Conclusion**
Eric Bensebaini's playing time at Borussia Dortmund from 2014 to 2016 represents a pivotal moment in his career and the club's history. His contributions to the team's success, combined with his leadership qualities, helped establish Dortmund as a force to be reckoned with in European football. While his overall impact may not have been as dramatic as some of his contemporaries, his time at Dortmund remains an important chapter in his career and the story of Borussia Dortmund's rise to prominence.