Thunderbolt in Saudi Arabia: Karim Benzema has slammed the door on Al-Ittihad and officially joined rival club Al-Hilal after tensions over a contract extension he reportedly considered disrespectful. A shock transfer that reignites the battle between the giants of the Saudi league.
The 38-year-old French striker has signed a contract running until June 2027 with the current Saudi Pro League leaders. Financial details have not been disclosed, but the deal is complete. This surprise move is also said to have strongly irritated Cristiano Ronaldo, rekindling the rivalry between the two stars.
A Surprise Number 90 for His New Journey
To mark this fresh start, Benzema will wear a highly unexpected squad number: 90. It is a bold and unusual choice for a striker of his stature, who is leaving behind his historic numbers for a completely new identity under his new colors.
In his farewell message, the Frenchman said: “Al Ittihad, this chapter ends, but the respect and gratitude will remain forever. Thanks to the club, the staff, my teammates, and especially the supporters. I leave with my head held high.” New club, new number, same transfer-market bombshell.
🚨 OFFICIEL ! 𝗞𝗔𝗥𝗜𝗠 𝗕𝗘𝗡𝗭𝗘𝗠𝗔 🇫🇷 𝗣𝗢𝗥𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗔 𝗟𝗘 𝗡𝗨𝗠𝗘́𝗥𝗢 9️⃣0️⃣ 𝗔̀ 𝗔𝗟-𝗛𝗜𝗟𝗔𝗟 !!! 🇸🇦💙
📸 @Alhilal_FC pic.twitter.com/lRJ47CwmQG
— Actu Foot (@ActuFoot_) February 3, 2026
Related Posts:
- N’Golo Kanté Signs for Fenerbahçe Despite Failed Transfer!
- “I don’t understand why… ” : Pep Guardiola’s jab at Manchester City’s transfer spending
- “I’m not going to teach him how to score ” : Ciro Immobile is a star at Paris FC
- N’Golo Kanté No Longer Wants to Play, Al-Ittihad Stuck!
- Huge bug: N’Golo Kanté transfer canceled!
- Real Madrid in Turmoil: Fran García Said Goodbye but Is Now Stuck
