Karim Benzema: Al Hilal is the ‘Real Madrid of Asia’
Karim Benzema expressed his desire to secure trophies for his new Saudi Pro League team Al Hilal, which he referred to as the “Real Madrid in Asia.”
The French striker opted against a contract extension to stay at Al Ittihad beyond June, choosing instead to join the Saudi Pro League leaders Al Hilal on Monday.
In his first comments following the transfer, the former Madrid captain and 2022 Ballon d’Or recipient stated on the club’s website: “It’s good. I’m pleased to be here. After my initial training session with the team and the coach, I’m very happy and excited to be part of this squad.”
“It’s a strong team with a rich history. They have achieved numerous victories.”
“It’s comparable to Real Madrid in Asia. Everything is positive; the fans are supportive, they play well, they have talented players, and a strong mentality.”
“I have admired this team for some time. I faced them with Madrid, and those matches were challenging. They were good contests, so I have fond memories. Today, I’m delighted to be a player for Al Hilal.”
Sources indicate that Benzema, 38, felt undervalued by the contract extension proposed by Al Ittihad.
The Al Ittihad agreement from the Saudi Pro League, which manages the contracts of key players in clubs owned by the PIF (Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund), would have effectively resulted in the veteran forward playing without compensation, sources noted.
Benzema, who received offers from European clubs, opted to remain in Saudi Arabia, partly due to his image rights agreement lasting until 2030.
His transfer to Al Hilal, facilitated by PIF, has reportedly upset his former Madrid teammate Cristiano Ronaldo, who leads rivals Al Nassr.
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According to sources, Ronaldo declined to participate in his club’s match on Monday in protest, claiming that PIF was not sufficiently investing in Al Nassr and was instead favoring Al Hilal.
Ronaldo aims to secure his first significant title with Al Nassr, and his team currently sits second in the Saudi Pro League standings, just one point behind Al Hilal.
Benzema, who played a crucial role in Al Ittihad’s league title and King’s Cup victory last season, stated he is eager for additional silverware.
“[It’s a] clear message,” he remarked. “You know my mentality. I possess a lot of ambition. I will work hard and give my all on the pitch. I will support this team, and, inshallah, we will win trophies. For me, bringing home trophies is paramount. As I mentioned earlier, we have a strong team, dedicated fans, and together, inshallah, we will achieve it.”
Benzema arrived in Saudi Arabia in the summer of 2023 after winning 25 trophies with Madrid, including four La Liga titles, three Copa del Rey titles, and five Champions League trophies.
He has scored eight goals in 14 league matches this season.
His debut match with Al Hilal will be Thursday’s league game against Al Okhdood.
