Karim Benzema, the esteemed French striker, has expressed his heartfelt sadness as he bids farewell to Real Madrid and embarks on a new chapter in his football career. The magnitude of his departure is staggering, as he secures a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia for an astonishing sum of £258 million.
Al-Ittihad, the reigning champions of Saudi Arabia, have successfully secured the services of Benzema, who will join them on a three-year contract, reaping the immense financial rewards. The announcement of this momentous transfer was marked by a farewell ceremony orchestrated by Real Madrid president Florentino Perez on the morning of June 6, 2023.
Benzema, who was honored as the recipient of the prestigious Ballon d’Or in 2022, leaves behind an illustrious legacy at Real Madrid. Over his tenure, he has amassed an impressive collection of accolades, including four La Liga titles, five Champions League triumphs, and five Club World Cup trophies. These achievements have solidified his status as one of the club’s most decorated players.
During the poignant farewell event, Benzema opened up about the emotional toll of bidding adieu to his beloved club. He conveyed the depth of his pain, expressing that it is no easy task to sever ties with Real Madrid. He had harbored the desire to conclude his career within the club’s prestigious walls. However, as life’s circumstances evolve, paths can diverge unexpectedly.
Nonetheless, the departing striker assured everyone that his heart will forever remain devoted to Real Madrid. He pledged his unwavering support to the club and asserted that it will always hold a special place in his heart. Benzema wholeheartedly declared that Real Madrid, renowned as the finest club in the world, will forever be his family.
In a poignant conclusion to his farewell speech, Benzema reiterated the iconic rallying cry of Real Madrid by exclaiming, “As I said the first day, 1, 2, 3… Hala Madrid!” This sentiment encapsulated the enduring bond he shares with the club and its passionate fanbase.
Florentino Perez, the president of Real Madrid, expressed his profound admiration for Benzema, reminiscing about the Frenchman’s arrival at the club 14 years prior. Perez acknowledged Benzema’s remarkable ascent to become one of the greatest players in the history of the sport. He hailed him as a symbol of the club, a true legend who has managed to captivate football enthusiasts worldwide. The president acknowledged that it took some time for certain individuals to fully comprehend Benzema’s unique style of play, but his talent and impact were undeniable. Perez confessed that bidding farewell to Benzema was an immensely challenging experience, emphasizing the immeasurable love and adoration he garnered not just from the Real Madrid faithful but from admirers across the globe. He concluded by deeming Benzema as one of the chosen few who have left an indelible mark on the world of football.
Karim Benzema’s new venture at Al-Ittihad will be under the guidance of Nuno Espirito Santo, the former coach of Wolverhampton Wanderers and Tottenham Hotspur. Al-Ittihad, having secured the Saudi title this season, finished five points clear of Al-Nassr, the club led by the revered Cristiano Ronaldo. This new challenge in Saudi Arabia presents an opportunity for Benzema to make a lasting impact and further his illustrious career in the beautiful game.
