Karim Benzema has made headlines in recent days as the uncertainty surrounding his contract put his future in jeopardy Al-Ittihad when in doubt. As tensions rise around the world Saudi Pro Leaguethe French star has now broken his silence, issuing a farewell message to his former club after completing his move to England Al Hilal.
The dispute between Benzema and Al Ittihad escalated this week when the striker requested to be left out of the club’s most recent match. According to reports, Benzema felt disrespected by a contract extension proposal that would have extended his deal beyond the 2025-2026 season by no basic salary, meaning his income depends exclusively on image rights.
The situation quickly sent shock waves through the country Saudi Pro Leaguewith Benzema determined to leave Al Ittihad during the winter transfer window despite only days remaining before its closure. Al Hilal then emerged as the destination, intervened when the club completed the sale of Marcos Leonardo to Atlético Madrida move that reportedly sparked frustration from another league star.
According to multiple reports Cristiano Ronaldo opted to sit out Al Nassr’s match against Al Riyadh amid growing dissatisfaction with the management of the Public Investment Fund.. One of his concerns centered on what he perceived as preferential treatment towards Al Hilal, especially in contrast to Al Nassr’s lack of international signings, with the push to sign Benzema cited as a major flashpoint.
Despite these objections, Ronaldo’s position did not prevent the deal from going through. On the deadline day, Benzema completed his transfer to Al Hilal with Al-Ittihad announcing the termination of his contract. The Ballon d’Or winner will now remain in Saudi Arabia until June 2027 after signing an 18-month contract with his new club.
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Benzema’s message to Al Ittihad fans
When his contract with Real Madrid expired, Benzema opted to join Al Ittihad in July 2023 as part of the Saudi Pro League’s ambitious project. In addition to stars such as N’Golo Kanté, Fabinho and Moussa Diaby, the striker helped the club win both the Saudi Cup and the league title during the 2024-2025 seasonthus cementing his place in the history of Al Ittihad.
After two and a half years at the club, Benzema moved to X (formerly Tweet) to share a farewell message addressed to Al Ittihad and their supporters: “Al Ittihad, this chapter is coming to an end, but the respect and gratitude will always remain. I would like to thank the club, the staff, my teammates and especially the fans for the welcome, love and energy you gave me every day.
“This journey has given me a lot, both personally and professionally. I leave with my head held high, proud to have worn these colors and everything we shared. I wish you all the best for the future. Respect. KB9,Benzema concluded his message.
Benzema, who wore the captain’s armband in his last appearances, leaves Al Ittihad behind 54 goals and 17 assists in 83 gamesalong with two large trophies. Still, his departure was met with backlash from parts of the fan base, with videos circulating on social media showing supporters burning his jerseysa grim reflection of how abruptly his tenure came to an end.
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