Karim Benzema is set to depart Real Madrid after spending 14 years with the club. According to state media, the 35-year-old has struck an agreement with reigning Saudi Pro League winners Al-Ittihad, led by former Wolves manager Nuno Espirito Santo, and will sign a two-year contract, according to Reuters. The former international for France moved to Real from their local club Lyon in 2009 and has since made 657 appearances while tallying 353 goals. This season, Benzema has participated in 42 games in all competitions, scoring 30 goals and setting up another six. He was not involved in Real’s 2-1 victory over Sevilla on May 27, but he could play one more time in their Sunday night league encounter against Athletic Bilbao. Benzema enjoyed a trophy-laden run in which he won the Champions League five times and La Liga four times.
“Karim Benzema and Real Madrid CF have decided to part ways after a successful and illustrious career together,” the club said in a statement. “Real Madrid wants to express its appreciation and love for a person who is already among our greatest legends. Karim Benzema has shown integrity and professionalism throughout his Real Madrid career, and he has reflected the ideals of our organization. Karim Benzema has a right to select his own path in life.”
“Fans from all around the globe, including Madridistas, have admired his wonderful and distinctive brand of play, which has elevated him to the status of a legendary figure in international football,” the statement added. “Real Madrid is and always will be his home, and he sends him and his entire family his warmest wishes as they enter this new stage of life. An official tribute and farewell to Karim Benzema will be held at Real Madrid Sports City on Tuesday, June 6 at 12:00 p.m. Our president Florentino Pérez will be present.”
After 14 years at the Bernabeu, Benzema, 35, is poised to go to the Saudi Pro League. Kane was one of their goals to replace Benzema should he decide to leave before it was officially known that he was leaving. This week, Real manager Carlo Ancelotti declined to comment on the club’s rumored interest in Kane, who is Man Utd’s top target this summer.
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