The French superstar leaves Real Madrid after 14 years.
Karim Benzema has reportedly decided to leave Real Madrid ahead of a blockbuster move to Saudi Arabian side Al Ittihad.
Benzema was close to signing a contract extension with Real Madrid until a few weeks ago. However, a mega offer from the Saudi Arabian club convinced the Frenchman to end his glorious spell at Santiago Bernabeu.
According to ESPN, Al Ittihad have offered Benzema a two-year contract worth €400 million. The French striker will also work as an ambassador in Saudi Arabia’s bid to host the 2030 World Cup.
The move ends Benzema’s career at Real Madrid as one of their best-ever strikers. The Frenchman endured a slow start after arriving from Lyon in 2009 but soon found his place in the team’s “BBC” attacking line alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale.
Ronaldo’s departure in 2018 saw Benzema develop into Real Madrid’s main goalscorer. The Frenchman’s wonderful displays during the 2021-22 season earned him a Ballon d’Or, further cementing his place in the club’s history books.
Benzema leaves Real Madrid with a total of 24 trophies, including four La Liga titles and five Champions Leagues. The former France international registered 353 goals in his 647 appearances for the Spanish giants.
Al Ittihad’s successful bid to sign Benzema might not be the last attempt by a Saudi club to add a world-class star to their ranks. Lionel Messi, who will become a free agent this summer, is heavily linked with a transfer to Al Hilal ahead of the next season.
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