Karim Benzema Joins Al-Hilal from Ittihad in High-Profile Saudi Transfer

In a significant development in Saudi football, Al-Hilal has confirmed the signing of French star Karim Benzema from Ittihad for a season and a half, concluding a major transfer during the final hours of the winter transfer window.

Benzema missed the last two matches for Ittihad against Al-Fateh and Al-Najma due to contractual disagreements with the club regarding the renewal of his contract, which is set to expire at the end of the current season.

The former Real Madrid star is one of the most notable signings in the Saudi league, having played 83 matches for Ittihad since last season, where he scored 54 goals and provided 17 assists, leading the team to a domestic double by winning the league and the King’s Cup.

Media reports also indicated that Benzema declined an offer from Juventus, opting instead to join Al-Hilal to bolster their squad and continue competing for national and continental titles.

This transfer significantly enhances Al-Hilal's offensive capabilities, with expectations that the French player will make a substantial impact on the team's performance this season.