Now it's also official. Karim Benzema, Real Madrid's star of 14 years and Ballon d'Or winner, signed a three-year deal with Saudi Arabia's Al Ittihad on Tuesday. The French striker, considered one of the most glamorous players in the world, bid farewell to Real Madrid on Sunday with a sweet final goal in a 1-1 win against Athletic Bilbao.
In the signing video posted on social media, Benzema said excitedly: "I'm excited to see you in the city of Jeddah."
Benzema is here 🤩✍️
A new tiger will roar 🐅
Welcome to Ittihad!#Benzema2Ittihad#here2inspireKSA pic.twitter.com/I3GEm90fRB
— Ittihad Club (@ittihad_en) June 6, 2023
Benzema arrived at Real in the summer of 2009, at the age of just 21. During his 14 seasons at the Santiago Bernabéu he won 25 trophies, a record number for Real Madrid: 5 European Cups, 5 Club World Cups, 4 European Super Cups, 4 Spanish League titles, 3 Copa del Rey and 4 times the Spanish Super Cup.
Official, confirmed. Karim Benzema joins Al Ittihad on two year deal with option for further season. 🟡⚫️🇸🇦 #AlIttihad
Benzema will earn almost €200m per season net salary, commercial deals included. pic.twitter.com/vSrkL4zjJI
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 6, 2023
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The French striker ranks fifth in appearances for the Whites with 647 appearances, and second in Real Madrid's all-time top scorer table with 353 goals.
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