Benzema Joins Al-Hilal Amid Ronaldo’s Discontent

Karim Benzema has completed his transfer to Al-Hilal, joining fellow player Mohamed Kader Meïté this winter. This move follows a period of uncertainty earlier in the day, attributed to reported dissatisfaction from Cristiano Ronaldo. According to ESPN, Ronaldo expressed frustration over Al-Hilal’s ability to strengthen their squad during the January transfer window, while Al-Nassr struggled to make similar enhancements. Both clubs, managed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), are currently in a fierce competition for the title, with Al-Hilal leading by a single point after 19 matches.

Ronaldo did not participate in Al-Nassr’s most recent match against Al-Riyadh on the day of the transfer deadline. Prior to the game, there were claims that the 40-year-old was contemplating a strike in response to the transfer activities occurring in the Saudi Pro League. As of now, Al-Nassr has not provided an explanation for Ronaldo’s absence, and the forward has remained silent amid the ongoing speculation. However, with Benzema now officially part of Al-Hilal, it seems that any protest from Ronaldo may have been fruitless, as he continues to seek his second Saudi Pro League title. Notably, Ronaldo has yet to secure a league title since his arrival at Al-Nassr from Manchester United in 2022.

In a heartfelt farewell, Benzema took to social media to express his gratitude to Al-Ittihad. He stated: “Al-Ittihad, this chapter comes to an end, but the respect and gratitude will always remain. Thank you to the club, the staff, my teammates, and especially the fans for the welcome, the love, and the energy you gave me every day. This journey has contributed significantly to my personal and professional growth. I leave with my head held high, proud to have worn these colors and of everything we shared. I wish you all the best for what’s next.”

Having turned 38 in December, Benzema continues to perform well, having scored eight goals in 14 league appearances this season. He has expressed no immediate plans to retire, stating: “My contract with Ittihad is coming to an end. I can’t say yet whether I’ll stay or leave. It depends on many factors. I’ll turn 38 next month, and I see myself playing for another two years. Physically, I feel good, I work hard, and I’m putting in strong performances.”

Benzema also confirmed receiving offers to return to European football from the Middle East, indicating, “It’s true that I have proposals from Europe. I need to analyze everything and choose wisely, considering where I will feel best while acknowledging that I am appreciated here. We’ll see. They’re asking certain things of me, and I provide certain things in return. Everything is 50-50, but some points are still up for discussion. I’m not going to stop playing football or stop fighting in the next six months.”

Fans are eagerly awaiting Ronaldo’s decision regarding his return to action, with Al-Nassr set to face Benzema’s former club Al-Ittihad in the next Saudi Pro League match on Friday night. Meanwhile, Al-Hilal and Benzema will play against struggling Al Akhdoud on Thursday, aiming to extend their lead at the top of the table.