Karim Benzema has officially left Al Ittihad to join Saudi Pro League rivals Al Hilal, the club confirmed Monday with the post: “Karim Benzema is officially Hilali.”
The move, delayed by the Saudi Ministry of Sports and the Public Investment Fund (PIF), was finalized on deadline day, giving the 38-year-old his desired transfer. Benzema, out of contract in six months, rejected Al Ittihad’s extension offer, calling it “disrespectful.” Reports suggest the deal would have effectively kept him playing for free.
Instead, PIF orchestrated his move to Al Hilal, a decision that reportedly angered Cristiano Ronaldo, who refused to play for Al Nassr in protest, believing PIF favored Al Ittihad over his own club.
Despite interest from European sides, Benzema opted to remain in Saudi Arabia, partly due to his lucrative image rights contract running until 2030. His departure from Jeddah will see Youssef En-Nesyri replace him at Al Ittihad, while teammate N’Golo Kanté, 34, leaves for Turkish giants Fenerbahçe.
Benzema, the 2023 Ballon d’Or winner, had led Al Ittihad to the league title and King’s Cup last season. His arrival strengthens Al Hilal, Saudi Arabia’s most decorated club with 21 league titles and four Asian Championships, coached by Simone Inzaghi.
Al Hilal’s recent exploits include stunning Manchester City 4-3 at the Club World Cup, underlining their growing dominance. With Benzema now in their ranks, Ronaldo’s pursuit of a first Saudi league title faces an even greater challenge.
