Hala wallah, Benzema!
Karim Benzema transfers to Al Hilal, after months of speculation and contract negotiation stalls.
That’s right, the French striker has traded in his black and yellow jersey Al Ittihad jersey for an Al Hilal one (Blue was always his color, anway).
The former Real Madrid powerhouse has joined SPL leaders, further strengthening Simone Inzaghi’s squad which has been on the warpath with Darwin Núñez and more.
The exhilarating news was announced via Al Hilal’s social media channels where the 2022 Ballon d’or recipient was sporting the iconic royal blue and white jersey.
The Blue Power transfer guarantees that Benzema will not be returning to the European leagues anytime soon.
So, put on your Al Hilal scarves and prepare for his debut with the Riyadh team. Here is everything to know about the transfer.
Karim Benzema transfers to Al Hilal 2026
Karim Benzema, born in December 1987, is a footballing heavyweight and one of the smoothest strikers the game has ever seen. A master of flair, vision and all-round brilliance, he built a legendary career at Real Madrid, racking up 25 trophies, over 500 goals, and cementing his place as the club’s second-highest scorer of all time. A Champions League icon, he’s also France’s top scorer and assist king in the competition.
His Saudi adventure began in summer 2023 after he brought the curtain down on an era-defining spell at Real Madrid, choosing a new challenge by joining Jeddah’s Al Ittihad. Benzema’s legacy is simple: elite numbers, endless silverware, and a style that made the beautiful game look effortless.
Karim Benzema transfers to Al Hilal mid-season
Benzema’s exit from Al Ittihad closes the very successful chapter in Jeddah, where he was a key figure in lifting both the Saudi Pro League and the King’s Cup.
According to a report by the Saudi Gazette, contract talks at Ittihad hit a dead end, with proposed terms falling short of Benzema’s expectations and leading to a short absence from the squad. Sensing the moment, Al Hilal wasted no time, stepping in, opening direct talks, and sealing a deal that will see the French star in blue until June 2027.
More football action in the Kingdom
Football is a huge part of the Kingdom’s culture, with Riyadh Season hosting the Italian Super Cup in January 2025. The Saudi World Cup bid managed to achieve the highest-ever score and was announced as the official FIFA World Cup host for 2034. The Kingdom is also set to host the Asian leg of the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers.
Jun 2027. Al Hilal, @alhilal.
