Arabie saoudite : Karim Benzema rejoint Kalidou Koulibaly à Al-Hilal
The Saudi transfer market is once again making waves. Having fallen out of favor with Al-Ittihad, Karim Benzema has finally found a new club… without leaving Saudi Arabia. Heavily linked with moves to Europe, the French striker has signed with Al-Hilal, the current leaders of the Saudi Pro League, where he will notably reunite with Senegalese defender Kalidou Koulibaly.
Arriving at Al-Ittihad in the summer of 2023, Karim Benzema significantly contributed to the Jeddah club's success, winning a league and cup double in 2025. In two and a half seasons, the 2022 Ballon d'Or winner boasted a solid record of 54 goals and 17 assists in 83 appearances. Despite these performances, the relationship between the player and the club's management gradually deteriorated.
Under contract until June 2026, the former Real Madrid striker refused the contract extension offered by Al-Ittihad. Deeming the financial terms insufficient and disrespectful of his status, Benzema perceived the proposal as a slap in the face. Hurt in his pride, the "Nineve" decided to withdraw from the team, even going so far as to skip the last league match. Faced with this tense situation, the club ultimately accepted his departure.
Al-Hilal, ever vigilant, seized the opportunity. The Riyadh club, coached by Simone Inzaghi, quickly made a compelling offer. Seduced by the sporting project, Karim Benzema agreed to a one-and-a-half-year contract, tying him to the club until June 2027. Al-Hilal officially announced the arrival of their new star, further strengthening an already impressive squad.
With this high-profile transfer, the Saudi Pro League confirms once again its ambition to attract the biggest names in world football.
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