Karim Benzema bids farewell to Real Madrid, joins Al Ittihad

Karim Benzema – Karim Benzema wearing Real Madrid home kit 2021 2022 – CC BY-SA

Striker Karim Benzema officially announced Tuesday that he had joined Al Ittihad, becoming the newest star to join the Saudi Pro League.

After a 14-year stint at Bernabeu, the 35-year-old finally said goodbye to Real Madrid at the end of the 2022-23 season. In his final appearance for the club, a 1-1 draw against Athletic Club on Sunday, he left a lasting impression by displaying his talent and scoring a goal.

Insider sources revealed to ESPN last Tuesday that Benzema had signed a lucrative contract worth around $430 million over two years from the reigning Saudi champions.

Ittihad Club

2023-06-07 10:18

W E L C O M E ! B E N Z E M A 💪💪 https://t.co/Oc9IK4OoDj

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In Al Ittihad’s official statement, Benzema expressed his enthusiasm for embarking on a new football journey by joining the Saudi Arabian club. He highlighted their rich history, devoted fanbase and ambitious aspirations in Asian football, particularly their league triumph.

Benzema also felt grateful for his incredible accomplishments throughout his career in Europe. However, he said the moment had come to embrace a fresh challenge and undertake a new project.

“Every time I’ve visited Saudi Arabia, I’ve always felt such warmth and love from the fans and people,” the striker said. “I am looking forward to joining my new teammates and, together with them, helping take this amazing club and the game in Saudi Arabia to new levels.”

نادي الاتحاد السعودي

2023-06-07 10:18

البنــز اتحادي ✍️🤩 🎼 الحظ الليلة كريم #Benzema2Ittihad #here2inspireKSA https://t.co/YvsWFzebXF

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Al Ittihad president is excited about new signing

According to Al Ittihad president Anmar Bin Abdullah Alhailae, the signing of the reigning Ballon d’Or recipient represents another significant milestone for their esteemed club.

The president said the team cannot “wait to see him in the number 9 shirt of Al-Ittihad next season.” He added that they eagerly anticipate his contribution to helping the team reach their objectives, which encompass defending their title, competing in Asia and representing their nation on the grand stage of the FIFA Club World Cup.

Last season, despite facing injuries that led to his withdrawal from the French World Cup squad, Benzema showcased his remarkable goal-scoring ability by netting 31 goals in 43 matches with Real Madrid. He also contributed six assists.

Throughout his 648 games wearing a Real Madrid shirt, Benzema amassed 354 goals. He was instrumental in securing a record-breaking collection of 25 trophies for the club, including four LaLiga titles, five Champions Leagues, three Copas del Rey, four Spanish Supercopas, four UEFA Super Cups and five FIFA Club World Cups.