Benzema to Al Hilal? Saudi Football Chief Denies Transfer Amid Debate

Overview

Yasser Al-Misshal, the head of the Saudi Football Federation, disowned Karim Benzema's move from Al-Ittihad to Al Hilal during the recent winter transfer window.

Al Hilal announced the signing on a free transfer, with a contract lasting one and a half seasons, after terminating Benzema's deal with Al-Ittihad.

Asked about the deal, Al-Misshal said on television: "I don't like answering questions unless they're within my remit, and player transfers are negotiated between players and clubs."

He added: "Transfer regulations state that any player in the last six months of his contract may negotiate with any club."

He concluded: "I don't know any details about this matter, and the federation has no role in recruiting any local or foreign player."

Context and Reactions

The Benzema deal has sparked significant controversy in recent hours, after it emerged that Cristiano Ronaldo, the captain of Al Nassr, declined to complete the deal, arguing that Al Hilal has greater support from rivals.

Punchline (sniper-style): If transfers were bullets, this headline would still be dodging the target.

Punchline (sniper-style): In the contract game, six months is a long countdown—kind of like a cliffhanger with a coffee break.