The French forward has joined the Saudi club for a three-year spell, following his exit from Real Madrid, with a reported annual salary of 100 million euros.
Karim Benzema bid farewell to Real Madrid in a press conference on a Tuesday in early June, concluding a fourteen-season chapter with the club while serving as captain last season. Moments later, the transfer to Saudi side Al Ittihad was confirmed, setting the stage for him to wear the new club shirt until 2026.
Benzema’s Al Ittihad deal: contract length and salary details
After parting ways with Real Madrid, the French striker inked a three-year contract with Al Ittihad. He will earn 100 million euros per year during this period. He arrives as a free agent after terminating his contract with Real Madrid, bringing a fresh chapter to his career in a league that continues to attract high-profile names.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s friendship and a sign of growth in Arabian football
On Al Ittihad’s official portal, Benzema spoke about the move, describing it as a new challenge in a competitive league that features a growing pool of talent. He highlighted the presence of Cristiano Ronaldo as a friend and a signal that the region is accelerating on the world football map. His aim is to compete for trophies just as he did in Europe.
Rumors and discussions continue about the concentration of stars in the Saudi league, with talk of potential signings such as Lionel Messi and other elite players, and a desire to strengthen the squad with seasoned veterans who can help shift the balance of power in the competition.
Speech at the official unveiling and reflections on Madrid
Before finalizing his move, Benzema announced his departure from Real Madrid, a club where he achieved remarkable milestones. He became the club’s all-time leading assist provider, one of its top scorers, and the most capped foreign player in La Liga history. The moment was emotionally charged as he reflected on his journey, thanking teammates, coaches, and the club president for the opportunities that helped him grow from a hopeful youngster into a global star. He recalled the early days, the dreams that carried him forward, and the pride of helping Madrid win numerous titles, while acknowledging that new chapters often arrive with mixed emotions. Fans, teammates, and staff took his farewell as the end of an era and the beginning of another promising phase in his career.
Source: Goal