French striker Karim Benzema has left Al-Ittihad to join Saudi league leaders Al-Hilal on an 18-month contract, the Riyadh club announced on Monday.
“Karim Benzema is officially Hilali,” Al-Hilal said on
social media.
The 2022 Ballon d’Or winner joined on a free transfer after scoring eight goals in 14 league matches this season. The 38-year-old had missed Al-Ittihad’s last two games after falling out with the club over a proposed contract extension.
“Al Ittihad, This chapter comes to an end, but the respect and gratitude will always remain. Thank you to the club, the staff, my teammates, and especially the fans for the welcome, the love, and the energy you gave me every day. This journey gave me a lot, both personally and professionally. I leave with my head held high, proud to have worn these colors and of everything we shared. I wish you all the best for what’s next,” Benzema wrote on X.
According to reports, Benzema rejected an offer from Saudi league sporting director Michael Emenalo, which his entourage described as ‘insulting’ and close to ‘playing for free’ apart from image rights.
Benzema moved to Saudi Arabia in 2023 after 14 seasons at Real Madrid. He scored 21 goals last season as Al-Ittihad won the league, but the club now sit 12 points behind Al-Hilal.
Both Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad are owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF).
Ronaldo’s concern
Benzema’s situation indirectly put the spotlight on Cristiano Ronaldo, whose surprise absence for Al-Nassr’s 0-1 victory against Al Riyadh has sparked fresh controversy. Reports suggested on Monday that the move had deepened Ronaldo’s frustration at Al-Nassr’s lack of transfer activity.
Portuguese outlet A Bola claimed Ronaldo is unhappy with how clubs backed by the PIF are being managed differently, especially compared to Al-Hilal. Despite being named in the squad and reported to be fully fit, Ronaldo refused to participate in the match.
Only one point separates Benzema’s new club and Al-Nassr in what’s setting up to be a fascinating title race, where the former Real Madrid teammates could decide the direction.
