The French striker Karim Benzema has agreed to join Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, marking the end of a storied Real Madrid chapter after 14 seasons in white.
In a turn of events no one anticipated, Benzema will finish his career wearing Real Madrid’s colors and make his final appearance for the club this Sunday. The French captain departs after a long run that defined an era, moving to the Saudi club Al-Ittihad to begin a new chapter abroad.
The announcement came via an official report from the club, confirming Benzema’s departure and future move. Since arriving from Olympique Lyonnais in 2009, the striker developed into a key influence alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, who left the club in 2018. When Ronaldo departed, Benzema stepped up as the focal point of Madrid’s attack, evolving into a leader whose influence extended beyond goals to overall team impact. His leadership and clinical finishing elevated him into a central figure for the team over many seasons.
Benzema leaves Real Madrid as one of its most influential players in history. His scoring record stands at 353 goals, positioning him among the club’s top all-time scorers, while his longevity is reflected in his 647 appearances, a tally that would reach 648 if he takes the field again this Sunday. He shares the distinction of the most trophies won by a non-native player with Marcelo, totaling 25 club titles during his tenure. These accomplishments underscore a career defined by consistency, big-match performances, and an ability to shape the outcome of crucial games.
The numbers themselves speak to a remarkable journey. Although his final season did not showcase his peak form, Real Madrid fans remember the previous campaign as a period when he was pivotal in guiding the team to domestic and European success. His presence was instrumental in securing La Liga and the Champions League, a run that contributed to his Ballon d’Or recognition and solidified his legacy as a global football icon.
Now Benzema looks to a fresh challenge in Saudi Arabia, where the move to Al-Ittihad is framed as part of a broader strategy by the country to elevate its football profile ahead of major international events, including the 2030 World Cup project. The transfer mirrors the recent trend of high-profile players switching leagues mid-career, a shift that reflects evolving career pathways and new opportunities for competition and development in different football cultures. The arrival of Benzema, alongside existing star signings, signals Saudi football’s ambition to compete at the highest levels and to attract global attention to the domestic league.
On Tuesday afternoon, Real Madrid City prepared to host a formal farewell event for Karim Benzema, with the club president in attendance to celebrate his years of service and to acknowledge his impact on the club’s history. The gathering was designed to honor a player who helped redefine what it means to lead a team with both skill and quiet influence on the pitch.