Karim Benzema: 5-Time Champions League Winner To Leave Real Madrid After 14 Years

Karim Benzema, 5-Time Champions League Winner, Leaves Real Madrid After 14 Years. After 14 years at the club, Ballon d’Or-winning striker Karim Benzema will leave Real Madrid. The 35-year-old, who joined from Lyon in 2009, will leave the club on a free transfer at the end of the season. According to Spanish soccer journalist Guillem Balague, Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia has made a “record offer” to Benzema, and he is anticipated to make a move to the club. During his time at Real Madrid, Benzema achieved remarkable success, winning five Champions Leagues and four La Liga titles. Saudi state broadcaster Al Ekhbariya has announced that Benzema will sign a two-year contract at Al-Ittihad.

Benzema Leaves Real Madrid To Join Al Ittihad
Image Source: Twitter.com - @FabrizioRomano

If Real Madrid secures a victory on Sunday, they will secure a second-place finish in La Liga. However, they are currently trailing 11 points behind champions Barcelona and have failed to retain their Champions League title after being defeated by Manchester City in the semi-finals.

As a result of these disappointments, there are numerous speculations about significant changes taking place at the Santiago Bernabeu this summer. Among these rumors, the departure of Benzema is one that seems likely to become a reality.

Also Read: Manchester City Clinches FA Cup Victory In 2022-23 Season

Management Reaction Of Real Madrid

Real Madrid stated on Sunday acknowledging Benzema’s exceptional behavior and professionalism. The club recognizes that it embodies its core values. In addition, the statement said that Benzema has earned the right to determine his future.

The club made an announcement on Saturday that Eden Hazard and Marco Asensio will be departing the club this summer. Along with Benzema, they are the third first-team player to leave the club in two days.

According to some reports, Real Madrid’s head coach Carlo Ancelotti said on June 3 that he expects the Benzema to remain at the club next season. In his remarks, Ancelotti emphasized the greatness of Harry Kane. He also stressed that he paid respect to both the player and his current club Tottenham.

Real Madrid conveyed their appreciation for Benzema’s mesmerizing and unique style of football. His style of football has enthralled Madridistas and fans around the globe. It cemented his status as one of the iconic figures in the club’s history and in international football.

Real Madrid also emphasized that they consider the club to be Benzema’s eternal home. They extended their heartfelt best wishes to him and his family as they embark on this exciting new phase of their lives.

About Karim Benzema & Real Madrid History

With 25 major titles, Karim Benzema has cemented his legacy at Real Madrid. As the current Ballon d’Or holder, he played a pivotal role in guiding Madrid to victory in last season’s Champions League by contributing an impressive 15 goals throughout the competition. His list of titles also includes five Club World Cups and three Copa del Rey triumphs.

Having played in 647 matches for the club, Benzema is second on Real Madrid’s all-time goalscoring list with an impressive 353 goals, behind only Cristiano Ronaldo. He will make his final appearance for Madrid on Sunday against Athletic Bilbao to end the 2022-23 La Liga season.