Benzema Joins Al Hilal in Major Saudi League Coup After Al Ittihad Exit
Riyadh, 3 February 2026
Former Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema has completed a dramatic switch to Saudi Pro League leaders Al Hilal on a free transfer, signing an 18-month contract after terminating his deal with Al Ittihad. The 37-year-old French international rejected a contract extension offer from his previous club, where he had delivered their first-ever domestic double last season. Benzema’s arrival strengthens Al Hilal’s title charge as they lead the league by just one point ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr, setting up a fascinating rivalry between two footballing legends in the Saudi top flight.
A Journey of Professional Growth and Achievement
Benzema’s departure from Al Ittihad marks the end of a remarkably successful chapter that began when he joined the Jeddah-based club on a free transfer in 2023 after 14 illustrious years with Real Madrid [1]. During his time with Al Ittihad, the striker delivered exceptional results, leading the team to both the league title and the King’s Cup last season - marking the first domestic double in Al Ittihad’s history [1]. His impact was immediate and transformative, demonstrating the calibre of talent that has made Saudi Arabian football increasingly attractive to world-class players.
Statistical Excellence Despite Recent Absence
The French international’s performance statistics this season underscore his continued excellence at the highest level. Benzema scored 16 goals in 21 matches for Al Ittihad across all competitions this season [1], maintaining the prolific scoring rate that has defined his career. However, his final weeks with the club were marked by absence, as he missed the team’s previous two league matches before the contract termination [1]. This period of absence preceded his decision to reject Al Ittihad’s offer to extend his contract, ultimately paving the way for his move to their league rivals.
Al Hilal’s Strategic Acquisition
Al Hilal’s acquisition of Benzema represents a significant strategic move as they seek to maintain their position at the summit of Saudi football. The club currently sits atop the league standings with 47 points, holding a narrow one-point advantage over Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr [1]. Al Hilal announced that they had signed “French star Karim Benzema on a free transfer to represent the football team for one and a half years” [1], securing his services through what promises to be a crucial period in their title defence. The timing of this signing could prove decisive in their championship ambitions, particularly given the competitive landscape of the Saudi Pro League.
League Dynamics and Championship Implications
The transfer has significant implications for the Saudi Pro League’s title race and overall competitive balance. With Al Hilal leading by just one point ahead of Al Nassr, Benzema’s arrival adds another dimension to what is already a captivating championship battle [1]. Al Ittihad, meanwhile, finds themselves in sixth position with 34 points [1], representing a 13 13-point gap between the league leaders and Benzema’s former club. The French striker’s reflective words upon leaving Al Ittihad captured the positive nature of his experience: “This journey gave me a lot, both personally and professionally. I leave with my head held high, proud to have worn these colours and of everything we shared” [1]. This transfer exemplifies the continued evolution of Saudi Arabian football as it attracts world-class talent and enhances the league’s global profile.