When Free Means Big Headlines: Benzema Moves to Al Hilal Shocks Saudi Football
3 February 2026
Background of the blockbuster move
Media figure Khaled Al-Shaneef, a former star of youth teams and Al-Ahli, said Benzema's move to Al Hilal did not cost the club a single rial.
During his show on Tuesday night, Al-Shaneef noted that some claimed Al Hilal bought the remaining duration of Benzema's contract with Al Ittihad, but he dismissed that as false.
He added that the club's official tweet states the deal is free, suggesting there are no hidden financial terms behind the two clubs' agreement.
Al-Shaneef also said that Benzema reportedly forgave part of his dues with Al Ittihad in exchange for the transfer to Al Hilal; he described other claims as pure fabrications.
Reactions and the move in context
Al Shaneef disclosed that the outstanding payments Benzema had at Al Ittihad are said to be large, and he did not know the exact amount, supporting the club's decision to allow the departure.
Guest Ahmad Atif, a former player with Shabab, warned that leaving in this manner could be a disaster and argued the club should have marketed the player for a financial gain or pursued a swap deal.
He added that Al Ittihad, unlike last season, failed in deals and marketing, whether with Benzema or Kanté.
Separately, Al Hilal officially announced the signing as a free transfer for a period of one and a half seasons, through to summer 2027.
The move followed a souring relationship between Benzema and Al Ittihad after renewal talks stalled, and Benzema stayed away from recent league fixtures against Al Fateh and Al Janaah in the Saudi Pro League.
Ultimately, Al Ittihad issued a statement announcing the mutual termination of Benzema's contract, enabling him to join Al Hilal immediately.
Benzema had joined Al Ittihad in 2023 from Real Madrid and helped the club win the Saudi Pro League and the King's Cup last season.
Punchlines: If the transfer was truly cost-free, the club should consider selling air in the dressing room as a sponsorship. And the market is so competitive that even my wallet feels lighter watching this deal go through.
