By Sport Analyst
Emmanuel Afonja
Karim Benzema has made a surprise switch within the Saudi Pro League, sealing a late free-transfer move from Al Ittihad to rivals Al-Hilal in a deal that sent shockwaves across the league.
The former Real Madrid and France striker, now 38, joined Al Ittihad in 2023 but entered the final months of his contract amid reports of dissatisfaction over renewal negotiations. With no agreement reached, Benzema opted for a new challenge, bringing his time at Al Ittihad to an abrupt end.
Al-Hilal confirmed the signing in an official statement, announcing that the Ballon d’Or winner has agreed to a one-and-a-half-year deal with the club.
During his spell at Al Ittihad, Benzema enjoyed notable success, playing a central role in the club’s domestic dominance by helping them secure both league and cup titles in 2025. In a farewell message shared on social media, he reflected on his time at the club with pride, describing the experience as both professionally and personally fulfilling.
The high-profile transfer has reportedly caused tension elsewhere in the league, particularly at Al Nassr. Cristiano Ronaldo was absent from Al Nassr’s narrow league win over Al Riyadh, with no official explanation from the club or the Portuguese star himself.
Media reports in Portugal suggest Ronaldo is frustrated with what he perceives as unequal backing among Saudi clubs owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF). While PIF controls Al Nassr, Al Hilal, Al Ittihad, and Al Ahli, it is claimed Ronaldo believes rival teams have benefited from stronger financial support.
Al Nassr head coach Jorge Jesus recently acknowledged the club’s limitations in the transfer market, pointing to financial constraints and restrictions on foreign player slots. Although he confirmed the addition of young Iraqi talent Hayder Abdulkareem in January, Jesus admitted the squad needed further reinforcement.
Despite the uncertainty, Al Nassr still boast a star-studded lineup featuring Ronaldo, Sadio Mané, João Félix, and Kingsley Coman. Meanwhile, big-money signing Jhon Durán remains away from the club, currently on loan at Turkish side Fenerbahçe after his $75 million move last year.
Benzema’s arrival at Al-Hilal adds yet another heavyweight to an already formidable squad and further intensifies the rivalry at the top of Saudi football.
