Ballon d’Or winner Karim Benzema will be joining Cristiano Ronaldo and Al-Ahli Saudi coach Pitso Mosimane in the Saudi Pro League after completing a shock move to Al-Ittihad on a three-year deal on Tuesday.
According to reports, Benzema will earn around €600 (R12.3 billion) during his three-year spell with the Saudi champions.
Benzema will get to face Mosimane’s Al Ahli, who recently gained promotion and lifted the Saudi Arabia First Division Yelo League title – despite the future of the South African uncertain at the club after a fallout with the owners.
The French international is the second biggest global star to join the Pro League after former Real Madrid teammate Ronaldo, who moved to Al Nassr from Manchester United after last year’s Fifa World Cup.
“I am excited to experience a new football league in a different country” Benzema said in a statement.
“I have been fortunate to achieve amazing things in my career and achieve everything I can in Spain and Europe.
“It now feels the time is right for a new challenge and project. I am looking forward to joining my new teammates and, together with them, help take this amazing club and the game in Saudi Arabia to new levels.”
— Ittihad Club (@ittihad_en) June 6, 2023
The 35-year-old leaves Europe having lifted the five UEFA Champions League titles with Madrid, four La Liga trophies, three Copa del Reys and recently the holder of the Ballon d’Or.
Meanwhile, the Pro League is expected to swoop more stars in Europe, with the likes of Sergio Ramos, Alexis Sanchez, and Chelsea midfielder N’Golo Kante all likely to ply their trade in Saudi Arabia next season.
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