Striker Karim Benzema completed a surprise move to Al-Hilal after ending his contract with Al-Ittihad, the club confirmed Monday, in a stunning move that sends a clear message to the rest of the league as the title race enters a critical stage.
The French superstar rejected a contract extension in Jeddah to secure a free transfer move for the blue wave on a one and a half years. Consequently, Al-Hilal now possesses even more attacking depth and veteran experience within a squad that already dominates the domestic table.
“The journey gave me a lot personally and professionally,” Benzema shared on X, expressing pride in his previous domestic double.
The 38-year-old striker leaves a massive void at Al-Ittihad after scoring 16 goals in 21 matches across all competitions, leaving the Jeddah-side after leading them to the Saudi Pro League title last season. Meanwhile, Al-Hilal currently sits top of the league with 47 points, maintaining a narrow lead over Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr.
Pressure Mounts on Al-Nassr
Benzema’s arrival adds immense pressure on Cristiano Ronaldo, who still chases his first league title since moving to Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, Al-Hilal’s historical dominance and recent global success make them the most formidable opponent for any title-chasing superstar today.
Al-Hilal remains the most successful club in the Kingdom, boasting 21 league titles and four prestigious Asian Champions League trophies. Additionally, manager Simone Inzaghi has transformed the side into a clinical machine capable of dismantling even the most organized defenses.
Meanwhile, reports suggest that Benzema’s transfer has caused significant frustration for Ronaldo regarding Al-Nassr’s perceived lack of transfer market activity. Historically, these two icons dominated Europe together at Real Madrid, but they now fight for the same crown in Riyadh.
Rumors indicate Ronaldo has taken a stand against the current league balance by refusing to play despite being fully fit. Although manager Jorge Jesus denies any internal rifts, the league’s landscape has shifted significantly following this unexpected mid-season transfer deal. Every missed match now complicates Ronaldo’s pursuit of career milestones while Al-Hilal continues their relentless march toward another trophy.
