After fourteen trophy-laden years at Real Madrid, Karim Benzema will depart as a free agent at the end of the season.
Real Madrid have confirmed, French striker Karim Benzema will leave club on mutual agreement this June, after 14 trophy-laden seasons at the club.
The Ballon d’Or winner who had a year left on his contract, is set to move to Saudi Arabia after receiving a “record offer” from Al Ittihad.
Benzema, 35, joined Los Blancos in 2009 from Lyon and in that time has won five Champions Leagues, four La Liga titles, the Spanish Super Cup and the Club World Cup, amongst other trophies.
According to Saudi state-run Al Ekhbariya television station, Benzema is expected to sign a two-year contract with Al-Ittihad.
“Real Madrid and our captain Karim Benzema have agreed to put an end to his brilliant and unforgettable era as a player at our club,” said Real Madrid in a statement.
“Madrid want to show their gratitude and all their love to someone who is one of our greatest legends.”
“Benzema has been an example of behaviour and professionalism, and has represented the values of our club,” the statement read.
“He has earned the right to decide his future.”
“Madridistas and all the fans around the world have enjoyed his magical and unique football, which has made him one of the great legends of our club and one of the great legends of world football.”
“Real Madrid is and will always be his home, and we wish him and all his family the best in this new phase of his life.”
During his tenure at Real Madrid, the French striker has accomplished an impressive feat securing a remarkable 25 major titles which is the club record. With 647 appearances for Madrid, Karim Benzema holds the second-highest goal tally in the club’s history, having scored an impressive 353 goals.
His last appearance for Real Madrid is scheduled for Sunday as they face Athletic Bilbao in their final match of the 2022-23 La Liga season.
