Karim Benzema took a huge step in the summer transfer window of 2023 by leaving his long-time home, Real Madrid to join the Saudi club, Al-Ittihad. The move captured the eyes of the whole soccer world who expressed their disappointment in seeing a legend like Benzema leave Europe. The French striker left at a time when many still considered him among the top strikers in the world.
647 games, 353 goals, 165 assists.
The most assists in Real Madrid history.
The 2nd most goals in Real Madrid history.
5 Champions League and a Ballon d’Or winner.
The ‘one season wonder’ Karim Benzema. pic.twitter.com/HAkDMf3fkY
— TC (@totalcristiano) February 24, 2024
In the recent seasons, Benzema was the backbone of Real Madrid’s success. Ever since the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo, the Frenchman took it upon his shoulders to lead the Madrid frontline. His extraordinary displays even led to him winning the Ballon d’Or in 2022. In total, Benzema won five Champions Leagues and four La Liga titles among several other accolades making up to 25 trophies in total at the Santiago Bernabeu.
It has not been smooth sailing for Karim Benzema at his new club, Al-Ittihad. After 14 years with Real Madrid, Benzema has reportedly found it challenging to adapt to a new culture in a new league. Spanish outlet, Relevo, has reported Benzema’s desire to leave Saudi Arabia and return to play in Europe. The 36-year-old is said to regret his decision to leave Real Madrid early. At his age, Benzema would be well aware of the fact that a potential move could very well be the last one in his career.
Karim Benzema’s time with Al-Ittihad so far
Benzema’s arrival at Al-Ittihad was one of Saudi Arabia’s highly ambitious transfer market moves in 2023. They proposed a hefty contract to the reigning Ballon d’Or winner at the time with the intention to promote their long-term project globally. The striker was offered a massive salary of over $200 million per season. Al-Ittihad fans were eager to witness a global star in their squad and royally welcomed him.
Karim Benzema’s presentation at Al-Ittihad is absolutely insane. pic.twitter.com/xv9150P2Xe
— TC (@totalcristiano) June 8, 2023
Unfortunately, the association between Benzema and Al-Ittihad has not produced the results that were expected. The striker reportedly had a falling out with manager, Nuno Espirito Santo, who later left the club. Karim Benzema has been able to find the back of the net only 14 times for Al-Ittihad. Constant injury issues have not allowed him to enjoy a consistent stint with the squad. These factors have contributed to a possible bitter ending of Benzema’s journey in Saudi Arabia.
Real Madrid’s door shut for Karim Benzema’s return
Karim Benzema’s situation at Real Madrid has not failed to attract attention from Europe. Consequently, rumors about a possible return to Real Madrid have started surfacing. Reportedly, the French striker would want to return to the place where he developed himself as one of the world’s best all-rounded soccer players.
🗣️ Florentino Perez: “Karim Benzema, Madridistas will never forget your football.” pic.twitter.com/jHeDEGI6eb
— Madrid Zone (@theMadridZone) November 11, 2023
It was widely speculated that Karim Benzema would end his journey at Real Madrid in the summer of 2024. A contract extension was verbally agreed between the two parties with the official signature a formality. President Florentino Perez considered 2024 to be the perfect time for Benzema to hand over his role to the younger generation. However, Benzema took a surprising call to leave Madrid a year early.
Currently. Real Madrid have no intention to sign Karim Benzema back. Florentino Perez is renowned for not being interested in getting players who have left the club in recent seasons. A mutual respect will always be present between Benzema and Real Madrid but an official association looks unlikely. Real Madrid’s focus is now on scouting and signing young players with huge potential.