Benzema shares why he left Real Madrid

Karim Benzema shared that he “always wanted” to live in Saudi Arabia, having become an Al Ittihad player during the summer.

The French striker was expected to ink a 1-year deal to remain in Real Madrid following the end of the 2022/23 campaign. However, he instead signed with Al Ittihad in a contract that will see him earn almost 200 million dollars per season.

🇫🇷🟡 Karim Benzema on Al-Ittihad: “For a really long time, even before football, I always wanted to come to Saudi Arabia. Also, it’s a Muslim country.”

“Straight away I felt this love for me… I really want to help Saudi football grow. I wanted to be part of the story. That’s… pic.twitter.com/9DU0QSd1dC

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— EuroFoot (@eurofootcom) October 13, 2023

Until today, Benzema has played 11 matches for his new side, netting 6 goals in these clashes and helping the reigning title holders to the upper reaches of the standings.

“Well, with everything I’ve achieved with the Royal club, I think it was the right time for me to try something new,” Karim claimed. “For a really long period, even before my professional career, I always wanted to come to Saudi Arabia. Also, it’s a Muslim country. Straight away, I felt this love for me. On and off the pitch, I enjoy every day here.”