Following a trophy-laden 14-year stint with Real Madrid, Ballon d’Or winner Karim Benzema waved farewell to the club on Tuesday in a small, private ceremony attended only by supporters and the media. Why did Benzema leave Real Madrid for Saudi Pro League?
The 35-year-old French striker will be a free agent this summer and is anticipated to sign a two-year deal with Saudi Arabia’s Al Ittihad worth more than 100 million euros ($106.93 million).
There were no tears shed during a brief ceremony attended by only players, family, and close friends.
“I will always remember Real Madrid. It’s impossible, yet it’s the greatest club ever. But I think it is the right time to go and learn about another tale,” Benzema said to the small group of people gathered at Real’s training grounds.
He added, “It’s difficult to speak when so many emotions are involved, but I wanted to thank Real Madrid and my teammates. In my life, it was a wise choice. I’ve had the good fortune to realize a boyhood fantasy.”
Meanwhile, the star player shared a picture of the event on Instagram and addressed Madrid fans he wrote, ”After so many years, here the time has come to say goodbye from the club that has become my home, Real Madrid.”
”I had the privilege to wear this legendary shirt and represent this iconic club. I am very grateful to my president, my teammates, the coaches, the staff, and to all those who have participated in my career at Real Madrid,” he added.
Benzema joined Real Madrid from Olympique Lyonnais in 2009, and after Cristiano Ronaldo left the club to join Juventus in 2018, he took over as the club’s offensive spearhead and top goal threat.
With 354 goals, Benzema finished second only to Ronaldo on Real Madrid’s all-time scoring record.
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