In a surprising turn of events, Real Madrid has officially announced the departure of Karim Benzema after his remarkable 14-year tenure with the club. Carlo Ancelotti, the manager of Real Madrid, expressed his surprise at the decision made by the French striker.
According to reports from Reuters, the 35-year-old Benzema has reached an agreement with Al-Ittihad, the reigning champions of the Saudi Pro League. The team is managed by former Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo, and Benzema is expected to sign a two-year contract with them.
Benzema concluded his final league match of the season with a goal, converting a penalty to secure a draw against Athletic Bilbao. Throughout the season, he showcased his prowess by scoring 31 goals and providing six assists in 43 appearances across all competitions.
Ancelotti, who had previously expressed his belief that Benzema should retire at Real Madrid, shared his thoughts after the match, saying, “Yes, it was a surprise, a massive surprise for everyone. But we have to understand that he has thought about it thoroughly. This is part of a process that began at the club a few years ago, and it will continue into the next season.”
He reassured fans by stating that the club will have enough time to consider the necessary steps to replace Benzema, emphasizing that the squad will remain highly competitive in the upcoming season.
Karim Benzema joined Real Madrid from his hometown club, Lyon, in 2009. Over the years, he made an astonishing 658 appearances for the club, finding the back of the net 354 times. His time at Real Madrid was filled with success, as he won LaLiga four times and lifted the Champions League trophy on five occasions.
Real Madrid released an official statement expressing their gratitude and affection for Benzema, acknowledging him as one of their greatest legends. They recognized his exemplary conduct, professionalism, and embodiment of the club’s values throughout his career. Real Madrid also stated that Benzema had earned the right to decide his future and wished him the best for the new phase of his life.
To honor and bid farewell to Karim Benzema, an institutional tribute event will take place at Real Madrid Sport City on Tuesday, June 6, at 12:00 pm. The event will be attended by Real Madrid’s president, Florentino Pérez.
Carlo Ancelotti paid tribute to Benzema in his post-match press conference, acknowledging that he had the privilege of coaching one of the best players and strikers in the world. Ancelotti praised Benzema’s versatility and commended his kind, humble, and serious nature. The departing striker’s decision was respected, and Ancelotti, along with everyone else, expressed their gratitude for Benzema’s legendary contributions to the club, which will be cherished forever.
The departure of Karim Benzema marks the end of an era at Real Madrid, but his legacy as an exceptional footballer and one of the club’s greatest icons will forever be etched in the hearts of Madridistas and fans worldwide.
