Karim Benzema thrilled to join new club and promises more trophies
Karim Benzema didn’t wait long to choose a new home after failing to reach an agreement with his previous club. He has joined Al Hilal, Saudi Arabia’s most successful club. Before taking the field in his new colors, the French star compared the team to Real Madrid, Europe’s most successful club.
Benzema had a good spell at Al Ittihad, joining them in June 2023. Last season, he helped the club secure a domestic double including the Saudi Pro League. However, with contract extension terms unresolved, the 2022 Ballon d’Or winner officially moved to Al Hilal on Monday.
Speaking for the first time on the club’s website after joining Saudi Arabia’s record champions, Benzema shared his excitement:
“I’m very happy to be here. After my first training with the teammates and coach, I’m thrilled to be part of this team. They have won many trophies.”
Before moving to Saudi Arabia, Benzema spent most of his career at Real Madrid, where he rose to global stardom. In 14 years with the club, he won 25 trophies, including multiple UEFA Champions League and La Liga titles.
Al Hilal is equally successful in Asia, boasting 21 league titles and four AFC Champions League trophies. Benzema expressed his joy at joining such a triumphant team:
“It’s very similar here, like the Real Madrid of Asia. Everything is great, the fans are amazing, the team plays well, there are top-class players, and the mentality of the team is excellent. I liked this club even before joining.”
“I have played against this team while at Madrid, and it wasn’t an easy match. It was a very good match, and I have great memories from it. Today I am happy because I am an Al Hilal player.”
The 38-year-old star has pledged to help the club win more trophies:
“The message is clear. Everyone knows my mentality. I want to win a lot. I will work hard, give my best on the field. I will help this team and, Inshallah, we will win trophies. Winning titles is what matters most to me.”
“As I said before, we have a great team and amazing supporters. Inshallah, together we will achieve our goals.”
Al Hilal currently leads the league with 47 points from 19 matches in their bid to reclaim the title. Al Nassr, Cristiano Ronaldo’s team, trails by just one point in second place.
