In a major shift in the footballing world, Karim Benzema, the highly celebrated striker, has made a sensational move from Real Madrid to Saudi Arabian champions, Al-Ittihad.
The player’s contract with the Spanish giant had come to its expiration, opening the door for his transfer to the Middle East on a two-year contract deal.
Benzema’s move to Al-Ittihad has been a topic of speculation for a while, but now it’s official. Benzema, a significant contributor to Real Madrid’s numerous victories over the past 14 years, bids adieu to the club to embrace this new challenge.
Renowned football journalist, Fabrizio Romano confirmed the news on Twitter stating, “Official, confirmed. Karim Benzema joins Al Ittihad on a two-year deal with an option for a further season.” Romano’s tweet here further highlights the staggering financial details of the deal which include a whopping €200 million per season, inclusive of commercial deals.
In an official video announcement on Al-Ittihad’s Twitter account, Benzema expressed his anticipation for this new challenge. He stated, “Al-Ittihad is a new challenge for me. It’s a good league and there are many good players. Cristiano Ronaldo is already here, he is a friend who shows that Saudi Arabia is starting to get ahead and I am here to win as I did in Europe.“
Though many expected Benzema to extend his contract with Real Madrid, he opted to follow in the footsteps of his former teammate, Cristiano Ronaldo, into Saudi Arabia. This move is undoubtedly a massive boost to Saudi Arabian football, promising intense competition in the upcoming season.
Benzema’s public introduction to Al-Ittihad fans in Jeddah is set for Wednesday, where he will greet a full-capacity crowd. Given the current trend, the coming summer transfer window is likely to see even more high-profile stars making their way to the Saudi Pro League, with names like Lionel Messi already floating in the speculation mill.
Mandynews.com will continue to keep fans updated on further developments on this monumental move and other exciting football news. Stay tuned!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is Karim Benzema? Karim Benzema is a professional French footballer known for his time as a forward for Real Madrid and the French national team.
2. Where is Benzema transferring to? Karim Benzema is transferring to Al-Ittihad, a Saudi Arabian football club.
3. How long is Benzema’s contract with Al-Ittihad? Benzema has signed a two-year contract with Al-Ittihad, with an option for a further year.
4. What is Benzema’s salary with Al-Ittihad? Benzema will earn almost €200 million per season, inclusive of commercial deals.
5. Who else from Real Madrid has recently moved to Saudi Arabia? Cristiano Ronaldo, a former teammate of Benzema at Real Madrid, also recently made a move to Saudi Arabia.
