Benzema’s Bold Saudi Shake-Up: Farewell to Al-Ittihad, Welcome to Al-Hilal
2 February 2026
Transfer milestone
The French forward Karim Benzema, Al-Ittihad's star, bids farewell to the club's fans with an emotional message as he prepares to switch to the fierce rival Al-Hilal.
Al-Hilal announced his arrival on a free transfer after terminating his contract with Al-Ittihad, signing a deal that runs for a season and a half and ends with the 2026-2027 campaign.
Farewell and reaction
Following the club's official confirmation, Benzema posted on X a message in which he said the chapter is ending, but respect and gratitude will always remain for the fans forever.
He added: Thanks to the club, the staff, my teammates, and especially the fans for the warm reception, the affection, and the energy you gave me every single day there.
Career notes
This move marks the end of an arrival in 2023 from Real Madrid, during which Benzema appeared 83 times, tallied 54 goals and 17 assists, and helped secure league and cup glory last season.
League implications
The transfer underlines the Saudi league's growing pull in world football, with Al-Hilal strengthening their roster while Al-Ittihad adjusts after Benzema's departure worldwide today.
Punchline: Benzema moves like a chess grandmaster, except here the pawns wear boots and trophies.
