The former Real Madrid star signs a one-and-a-half-year deal with the Saudi Pro League leaders following a successful spell in Jeddah.
In a major transfer move within the Saudi Pro League, French striker Karim Benzema has joined league leaders Al Hilal on a free transfer. The announcement comes shortly after the 38-year-old mutually terminated his contract with former club Al Ittihad.
Benzema’s departure from Al Ittihad was confirmed after he declined a contract extension, having missed the team’s last two league matches. He joins Al Hilal on a deal spanning one and a half years.
“This journey gave me a lot, both personally and professionally,” Benzema posted on social media platform X, reflecting on his time in Jeddah. “I leave with my head held high, proud to have worn these colors and of everything we shared.”
During his tenure with Al Ittihad, which began in 2023 after his legendary 14-year career at Real Madrid, Benzema was instrumental in securing the club’s first-ever domestic double last season, winning both the Saudi Pro League title and the King’s Cup. This season, he netted 16 goals in 21 appearances across all competitions.
Al Hilal, currently topping the league table with 47 points—just one point ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr—will be bolstered by the veteran striker’s arrival as they push for the title. Al Ittihad now sits in sixth place with 34 points
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