Karim Benzema makes shock move to Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia


Real Madrid's Ballon d'Or winner, Karim Benzema, has taken the football world by surprise as he officially signs a three-year contract with Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad. 

The Jeddah-based team confirmed the deal on Tuesday, welcoming the French striker with great enthusiasm.

In a Twitter announcement, Al-Ittihad exclaimed, "Benzema is here. A new tiger will roar. Welcome to Ittihad!"

Benzema will reunite with his former Real Madrid teammate, Cristiano Ronaldo, in the Gulf Kingdom.

Ronaldo, a five-time World Player of the Year, made the move to Al Nassr from Manchester United after last year's World Cup. 

Speculations have also linked Lionel Messi, who recently departed Paris Saint-Germain, to a potential move to Saudi Arabia.

Officials from another Saudi Arabian club, Al Hilal, have reportedly traveled to France to finalize a deal with Messi. 

According to media sources, the Saudi delegation intends to meet with Messi's father and agent, Jorge Messi, to expedite the signing process.

The announcement of Benzema's transfer comes after Real Madrid's statement that the 35-year-old striker would be leaving the club following his remarkable 14 seasons with the Spanish powerhouse.

Decision came just a day after coach Carlo Ancelotti assured the public that there were no doubts about Benzema's future in the Spanish capital.

Benzema, who joined Real Madrid from Lyon in 2009, has made a significant impact during his tenure at the club. 

With 648 appearances and 354 goals, he stands second on Real Madrid's all-time leading goalscorers list, with only Ronaldo surpassing him. 

Benzema has won numerous titles with the club, including five Champions Leagues, four La Liga titles, and three Copas del Rey.

Although the 2021-22 season was exceptional for Benzema, with Champions League success and the prestigious Ballon d'Or award, the following season was marred by injuries, leading to his absence from the French national team's World Cup campaign due to a thigh problem.

During a farewell ceremony at Real Madrid's training ground, Benzema expressed his emotions, stating that it was painful to leave as he had always envisioned signing and retiring at Madrid. 

However, he acknowledged that life sometimes presents unexpected opportunities.


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