Benzema completes move to Al Hilal after rejecting Al Ittihad renewal | OneFootball

Karim Benzema has been officially announced as an Al Hilal player after completing a move from Saudi Pro League rivals Al Ittihad.

The 38-year-old brings an end to his time in Jeddah and strengthens an Al Hilal side already setting the pace at the top of the league.

Benzema joined Al Ittihad on a three-year deal after leaving Real Madrid in the summer of 2023, with his contract originally due to expire in June.

His spell with them was productive on the pitch but frequently complicated away from it.

Benzema served as Al Ittihad’s captain and scored 54 goals in 83 appearances across all competitions following his arrival from Spain.

He was one of the headline names to move to Saudi Arabia during the summer of 2023, when the Public Investment Fund took control of Al Ittihad, Al Nassr, Al Hilal and Al Ahli.

That influx also brought N’Golo Kante and Fabinho to Al Ittihad, though Benzema later expressed frustration with the club’s recruitment strategy.

In April 2024, he publicly stated that he needed stronger additions around him to compete at the highest level.

His relationship with the club had already come under scrutiny earlier that year.

Lyon explored a potential move in January 2024 after Benzema was absent from team duties during the mid-season break, having travelled on holiday without permission and reported back late.

He remained with Al Ittihad after that window closed, but uncertainty continued to surround his long-term future.

Al Ittihad went on to win the Saudi Pro League title in the 2024–25 season, a campaign that briefly eased tension around the squad.

This season has been more challenging, with them sitting sixth after 19 matches and trailing leaders Al Hilal by 13 points.

Al Hilal’s position reflects their depth and consistency, qualities Benzema will now look to contribute to directly.

Their squad already includes Ruben Neves, Darwin Nunez and Yassine Bounou, with Benzema adding further experience and pedigree.

Upon his arrival in Saudi Arabia, Benzema was appointed an ambassador for the country’s successful bid to host the 2034 World Cup.

His move across Riyadh rivals represents one of the most significant transfers within the league to date.

For Al Hilal, the signing reinforces their ambition to dominate domestically and compete strongly in continental competition.

For Benzema, it offers a fresh chapter and the chance to pursue further honours in familiar surroundings.