Benzema Joins Al Ittihad on a Three-Year Deal, Shaping a New Era in Saudi Football
Karim Benzema, the influential captain who helped Real Madrid amass a record of European and global titles, has agreed to a contract with Al Ittihad that extends through 2026. The move marks a landmark transition as he ends a 14-season spell with Real Madrid and steps into a new chapter in the Saudi Pro League, a league that has been attracting international stars to raise its profile and competitiveness. The signing signals a deliberate effort by Al Ittihad to bolster its squad with a player renowned for elite performance on European stages and the world stage alike.
In the official message accompanying the announcement, Benzema appears on screen in a video that closes with a candid moment in Arabic. He speaks directly to fans, expressing enthusiasm about meeting supporters in Jeddah, the coastal city chosen to host the team for the next three seasons. This sentiment resonates with fans who see the move as a chance for Al Ittihad to leverage Benzema’s leadership, experience, and goal scoring prowess as they pursue domestic silverware and strive to impact continental competitions more deeply. The video underscores the club’s aim to make a bold statement with a globally recognizable name that has already left a lasting mark on the sport.
Benzema’s arrival was celebrated widely on social media as the club released visuals showing him signing the contract in the familiar black and yellow colors, with the year 2026 visible on the jersey. The messaging framed the deal as a unifying moment to energize the squad and the fanbase alike. The announcement was echoed by posts from the club on their official channels, which positioned Benzema as a force ready to help guide the team through the coming seasons. This branding push fits a broader pattern in which top players join Saudi clubs, contributing not only on the pitch but also to the league’s global appeal and marketing reach.
In the days leading up to the confirmation, Benzema said farewell to Real Madrid, the club where he became the most decorated player in its history. The departure was presented as the end of an era and the start of a new adventure. While his dream included finishing his career with Real Madrid, an opportunity in Arab football emerged, offering a new challenge and a chance to extend his influence in a rapidly growing league. The move reflects Benzema’s willingness to explore fresh environments and contribute to the development of football in a market that has shown sustained ambition and financial backing for long term success. The decision to move placed him alongside other high profile signings, including Cristiano Ronaldo, who joined the Saudi league and helped raise the level of competition as well as visibility for the sport in the region.
WELCOME BENZEMA — The signing drew extensive coverage from the club and media, highlighting the potential impact of his presence on and off the field. The visuals and accompanying messages emphasized a collective goal: to elevate the league’s status, inspire young players, and broaden the international audience for Saudi football. The club’s communications also suggested a commitment to sustained performance, regional talent development, and partnerships that would accompany Benzema’s tenure through football and community engagement efforts. The public response reflected anticipation from fans and analysts about how Benzema’s technique, leadership, and experience will translate into victories and a lasting legacy for Al Ittihad.
The exact terms of the contract, including financial details, were not disclosed by the club after the initial announcement. Reports from state outlets and sports media indicated that the agreement included a comprehensive package, yet specifics were not released publicly. The lack of numbers did not diminish the sense of significance attached to the transfer; rather, it drew focus to strategic considerations behind such moves, including the potential for Benzema to lift the league’s global profile and support the club’s ambitions in domestic and continental competitions. The decision to sign Benzema was framed as part of a broader push by Saudi clubs to attract world class talent, enrich competition, and accelerate development within the sport in the region.
In summary, Benzema’s departure from Real Madrid and his arrival at Al Ittihad signal more than a single transfer. They reflect sustained investment in star power, leadership, and high level football strategy aligned with the ambitions of a growing league and a club determined to leave a lasting mark on both domestic stages and international circuits. The signing is expected to influence team dynamics, fan engagement, and the strategic roadmap for Al Ittihad in the seasons ahead as the club seeks to translate global experience into domestic success and regional appeal. [Citation: Al Ittihad Club communications].