The French striker is now expected to sign with Saudi Arabian side Al Ittihad, following a lucrative offer he received from the club.
This news comes after reports from ESPNon Thursday revealed Benzema's decision to leave Real Madrid after a remarkable 14-year tenure. Karim Benzema holds the distinction of being Real Madrid's second-highest goal scorer of all time. Throughout his tenure, he has amassed an impressive collection of 25 trophies, a joint-record with the club.
Among these accolades are five Champions Leaguetitles, four LaLiga championships, and the prestigious 2022 Ballon d'Or award. In a statement, Real Madrid expressed its gratitude and affection for Benzema, recognizing him as one of their greatest legends. The club emphasized Benzema's exceptional conduct, professionalism, and embodiment of their core values. Real Madrid acknowledged his right to determine his future and affirmed that the club will always be his home.
Real Madrid plans to hold a special event at its training ground on Tuesday to pay tribute to Karim Benzema. The occasion will provide an opportunity for the club, fans, and teammates to celebrate and bid farewell to the accomplished striker.
Earlier reports from ESPN revealed that Benzema had been presented with a lucrative two-year contract worth €400 million to join a Saudi Arabian club in January.
This opportunity has enticed the player to seek a new challenge and embark on a different chapter in his illustrious career.
Karim Benzema joined Real Madrid in 2009, initially facing challenges before establishing himself as an integral part of the club's formidable forward line alongside Cristiano Ronaldoand Gareth Bale. When Ronaldo departed in 2018, Benzema stepped up as Madrid's lead goal scorer. His exceptional performancelast season, with 27 goals in LaLiga and 15 goals in the Champions League, played a pivotal role in securing both trophies for the club. His outstanding contributions were acknowledged with the prestigious Ballon d'Or award in October.
Benzema's illustrious career at Real Madrid has been adorned with an impressive collection of trophies, with his 25 titles matched only by Marcelo.
These include four LaLiga championships, five Champions League triumphs, three Copa del Rey victories, four Spanish Supercopa conquests, four UEFA Super Cup wins, and five FIFAClub World Cup glories. As Karim Benzema prepares to embark on a new phase of his life and footballing journey, Real Madrid and its fans bid farewell to a true legend, expressing their well-wishes for his future endeavors.
The departure of this remarkable player marks the end of an era at Real Madrid, leaving behind a legacy that will forever be etched in the history of the club.
In a significant announcement, Real Madrid has confirmed Karim Benzema's departure from the club, with the French striker expected to join Saudi Arabian side Al Ittihad.
After an illustrious 14-year career at Real Madrid, Benzema leaves as the club's second-highest goal scorer and a recipient of numerous trophies, including five Champions League titles.
The club expressed gratitude for Benzema's contributions and will hold a farewell event to honor his legacy. As Benzema embraces a new challenge, Real Madrid bids farewell to a true legend, leaving behind an extraordinary chapter in the club's history.