The 35-year-old Frenchman, whose illustrious profession on the Spanish giants spanned over 14 years, is alleged to be contemplating a transfer to Saudi Arabian aspect Al Ittihad, following a tempting supply estimated to be value over €100 million.
Benzema’s departure comes after a season marred by accidents, which finally resulted in his absence from the French nationwide crew’s World Cup marketing campaign in Qatar. Whereas it appeared seemingly that the seasoned striker would stay at Actual Madrid for one more yr, the profitable supply from Saudi Arabia seems to have influenced his determination.
Actual Madrid expressed their gratitude to Benzema in an official assertion, acknowledging his invaluable contributions on and off the pitch.
“Real Madrid CF and our captain Karim Benzema have agreed to end his brilliant and unforgettable period as a player for our club,” the assertion learn.
“Karim Benzema’s career at Real Madrid has been an example of behaviour and professionalism, and has represented the values of our club. Karim Benzema has earned the right to decide his future.”
If Benzema’s transfer to Al Ittihad materialises, he’ll be part of former Actual Madrid teammate Cristiano Ronaldo, who made the same change to Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia in December, signing a contract reportedly value greater than €200 million.
Since becoming a member of Actual Madrid from Olympique Lyonnais in 2009, Benzema has change into a pivotal determine within the membership’s attacking prowess. Following Ronaldo’s departure to Juventus in 2018, Benzema assumed the mantle because the crew’s main goal-scoring risk.
With over 350 targets to his identify, Benzema performed an instrumental function in Actual Madrid’s triumphs, notably within the 2021-2022 season, the place he notched a powerful 44 targets throughout all competitions, main the membership to their record-extending 14th European title and securing the LaLiga crown.
Throughout his outstanding tenure, Benzema amassed an astonishing 25 trophies with Actual Madrid, together with 5 European Cups, 4 LaLiga titles, and three Copas del Rey. His legacy inside the membership will eternally be etched within the historical past books.
(With inputs from Reuters)