Karim Benzema Signs Three-Year Deal with Al-Ittihad After Leaving Real Madrid: Updates, Salary and More

French striker Karim Benzema has signed a three-year deal with Saudi Arabian champions Al-Ittihad after leaving Real Madrid. The 35-year-old reigning Golden Ball winner, who played for the “White Ballet” for 14 years, did not confirm the name of his new employer during his farewell in Madrid. The Jeddah club confirmed his arrival today and posted a video of the contract signing on Twitter.

“It’s a sad day because I’m leaving this club. It hurts because I had one dream in my head – to come to Real Madrid and end my career here. But sometimes life gives you other opportunities.” Benzema said at a press conference.

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

He moved to Real in 2009 from Lyon, with whom he won four titles. The former French international played a total of 648 competitive matches for the Madrid team and scored 354 goals. Only Cristiano Ronaldo (450) scored more goals for the “White Ballet”.

“Thank you very much to Real Madrid, it’s been a ride. Thanks to the president (Florentin Pérez) I was able to fulfill a childhood dream. I also enjoyed everything I won here with the joy of a child. I will never forget the best club in the world. But now it’s time to leave and start another story” Benzema stated.

Karim Benzema has signed a deal with Al Ittihad until 2026pic.twitter.com/8g8ahxC6C5

— Get Spanish Football News (@GSpanishFN) June 6, 2023

The 38-year-old Portuguese striker Ronaldo is currently also active in Saudi Arabia. His Al-Nassr finished second just behind Al-Ittihad last season. The coach of the championship team from Jeddah is the Portuguese Nuno Espírito Santo, who in the past led Porto, Wolverhampton or Tottenham.

Argentine striker Lionel Messi is also linked with a lucrative job in Saudi Arabia. The 35-year-old captain of Argentina’s world champions will be a free agent at the end of June following the end of the Paris St. Germaine.