OFFICIAL: Karim Benzema Signs With Another Saudi Pro League Club
The future of Karim Benzema in Saudi Arabia is taking an unexpected turn. After failing to reach an agreement with Al Ittihad, the French striker is now very close to signing with Al Hilal, one of the biggest clubs in the Saudi Pro League.
The Karim Benzema era at Al Ittihad appears to be coming to an end. After two and a half years in Jeddah, the 2022 Ballon d’Or winner is preparing to switch clubs within Saudi football. Talks with Al Hilal are at an advanced stage, and an official announcement could arrive within hours.
His departure is not being driven by footballing reasons, but by a complete breakdown in his relationship with Al Ittihad’s management. Benzema’s contract runs until June 30, but negotiations over a renewal collapsed, accelerating a split that now looks inevitable.
A Breakup That Forced His Exit
When Karim Benzema arrived in Saudi Arabia, he was more than just a star player. At Al Ittihad, he became the face of the club both on and off the pitch. His influence helped bring back success, including a league and cup double in the 2024–25 season.
However, unfulfilled promises and a lack of recognition from the club’s ownership damaged the relationship. Despite Benzema publicly stating his desire to stay, he felt his status was being undermined, pushing him to look for a new destination.
The situation became even clearer when he was left out of Al Ittihad’s most recent league match against Al Najma, a strong indication that his time in Jeddah was coming to a close.
Al Hilal Make Their Move
The main beneficiary of this conflict is Al Hilal, the current league leaders. The Riyadh-based club is searching for attacking reinforcements following the expected departure of Marcos Leonardo, who is set to return to European football. That has opened the door for a major push to sign Karim Benzema.
Bringing in the French star would be a massive sporting and commercial statement. Not only would Al Hilal add one of the most decorated strikers of the modern era, but they would also weaken a direct rival in the Saudi Pro League title race.
One More Step Before a Dream Return?
While his short-term future appears to lie with Al Hilal, Karim Benzema has made no secret of his desire to one day return to Real Madrid, the club that defined his career. The striker plans to continue playing for at least two more seasons before considering retirement, and Saudi Arabia remains the stage where he intends to stay competitive.
