After an incredible 14-year journey at the Bernabeu, Real Madrid has officially announced that Karim Benzema will be leaving the club this summer.
The news of his imminent departure was confirmed by Los Blancos in a statement released earlier today, following speculations of a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia.
Benzema’s contract with the Spanish capital expires at the end of this month, and the upcoming home match against Athletic Bilbao on Sunday will serve as a farewell tribute to the club legend, where he will bid adieu to his devoted fans.
Real Madrid expressed their gratitude and admiration for Benzema’s exceptional contributions in a heartfelt statement, stating, “Real Madrid and our esteemed captain, Karim Benzema, have reached an agreement to conclude his illustrious and unforgettable tenure as a player for our beloved club.”
“Real Madrid wants to show its gratitude and all its affection for who is already one of our greatest legends.
“Karim’s career at Real Madrid has been an example of behavior and professionalism, and has represented the values of our club. Karim has earned the right to decide his future.
“Madridistas and all the fans around the world have enjoyed his magical and unique football, which has made him one of the great myths of our club and one of the great legends of world football.
“Real Madrid is and will always be his home, and he wishes him and all his family the best in this new phase of his life.”
Benzema, 35, joined Real from Lyon in 2009 and has played a key role in one of the club’s most successful periods in history.
His honours included five Champions League titles, four LaLiga crowns, three Copa del Rey trophies and the 2022 Ballon d’Or, cementing him as one of the game’s modern-day icons.
As well as Sunday’s LaLiga finale, a separate farewell event will be held next Tuesday, June 6, at Real Madrid City with club president Florentino Perez set to be in attendance.
Benzema is widely expected to join Saudi Pro League outift Al-Ittihad, where he would square off domestically against former Madrid team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo.
Reports have suggested the Frenchman will put pen-to-paper on a deal worth over £340million.