French footballer, Karim Benzema, has bid farewell to Real Madrid on a triumphant note by scoring in his final match for the Spanish club after a remarkable 14-year tenure.
According to a report by Reuters, the 35-year-old striker has secured a lucrative agreement with Al-Ittihad, the reigning champions of the Saudi Pro League. Under the management of former Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo, Benzema is set to sign a two-year contract with the club.
Real Madrid officially confirmed the departure of Benzema on Sunday, June 4, just before their final match of the season against Athletic Bilbao.
The club issued a statement, saying:
“Real Madrid C.F. and our captain Karim Benzema have mutually agreed to bring an end to his illustrious and unforgettable spell as a player for our esteemed club. Real Madrid extends its gratitude and deep affection to a player who has already cemented his status as one of our greatest legends.
“Karim Benzema's tenure at Real Madrid has been a shining example of exemplary conduct and professionalism, epitomizing the core values of our club. Karim Benzema has earned the right to determine his own future... Real Madrid will always be his home, and we wish him and his entire family nothing but the very best in this new chapter of his life.”
In his final appearance for Real Madrid, Benzema converted a penalty to equalize the score at 1-1 after defender Eder Militao was fouled inside the box. Soon after, the French forward was substituted and received a standing ovation from the adoring fans.
Benzema holds the distinction of being Real Madrid's second-highest goalscorer of all time and has amassed an impressive haul of 25 trophies with the club, including five Champions League titles and four La Liga triumphs. Furthermore, he was honored with the prestigious Ballon d'Or award in 2022.
Initially expected to remain at Madrid until June 2024, the center-forward has chosen to embrace a new challenge instead.
Benzema initially joined Real Madrid from Lyon in 2009 and, after a challenging start, formed a formidable attacking trio alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale, propelling the club to numerous successes.
Following Ronaldo's departure in 2018, Benzema assumed the mantle of Madrid's primary goalscorer and delivered his best-ever season last year, netting 27 goals in La Liga and 15 goals in the Champions League as the club secured both prestigious trophies. His exceptional form led to him being awarded the Ballon d'