Getting to know Bayern's Medhi Benatia

French rap, Al Pacino and dressing-room banter with David Alaba. FC Bayern München centre-back Medhi Benatia revealed all when he answered questions from @ChampionsLeague Twitter fans in #AskBenatia.

Toughest striker you've played against?

Medhi Benatia: Zlatan Ibrahimović. He is the complete player who has caused me lots of trouble. He's a great player who can create problems for any team.

Benatia: Certainly. We have to improve and believe in what we're doing. The entire team are focused on achieving our objectives.

Which defender did you grow up admiring?

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Benatia: Paolo Maldini. He was a phenomenal player. He started when he was 17 and played at the top level for his entire career. A real champion. 

Favourite film/movie star?

Benatia: Film? IT. Movie star? Robert De Niro and Al Pacino!

Your career highlight?

Benatia: I've had several good moments, so it's difficult to pick one. Perhaps when I signed my first professional contract or when I signed for Roma. It was a massive step forward in my career. Then there's my first goal for Bayern.

Funniest moment at Bayern?

Benatia: Every day with Rafinha, [Franck] Ribéry and Alaba. We have fun in the dressing room and it's a great atmosphere.

What music do you like?

Benatia: There's not one particular song, but I like French rap. I listen to it before every game!

What's it like working with Josep Guardiola?

 Benatia: Fascinating. Every day you learn something new. Many believe there is nothing more a Bayern player can learn but it's not the case with a coach like him. It's a great pleasure.

Who's the best player in the world?

Benatia: As Morocco captain, I voted for [Manuel] Neuer [in the FIFA Ballon d'Or]. He's a team player, humble and works very hard. He deserved to win but it's not easy for goalkeepers. Ronaldo and [Lionel] Messi were also worthy winners.

Best mate at Bayern?

 Benatia: They're all nice people at Bayern. I talk a lot with Ribéry in French and our sons are at the same school.

What do you do in your spare time?

Benatia: I'm mostly at home – it's cold! I don't walk as often as I did in Rome. I prefer to watch a film at home with my family. I play football with my son and train him so he can be better than his father! My daughter is learning to write and it's a pleasure spending time with them.