Karim Benzema: “I am Very Happy in Saudi Arabia”
Karim Benzema, expressing his pleasure at playing professional football in Saudi Arabia, told the club’s official media: “I’m pleased to be back with the team. It’s been some time and I’ve had time to do a pre-season. I’m feeling very good, comfortable. I’m looking forward to the game on Sunday.”
Discovering a New Passion
Benzema’s decision to join Al-Ittihad stems from his desire to experience something new after achieving success with Real Madrid. He has long been interested in the prospect of playing in Saudi Arabia.
“The project of football in Saudi Arabia is immense from every aspect. For me, I really wanted to be a part of this story, to help in the progress of football in Saudi Arabia. That’s one of the reasons why I came here. Also because it’s an lslamic country, and also because they welcomed me with open arms, I felt the love and the welcome, that’s why I came.” – Karim Benzema
Spiritual Experience in the Holy City
One of the standout aspects of Benzema’s time in Saudi Arabia has been his experience in the holy city of Makkah. He described it as a place of peace and purity.
“When you are in Makkah, you are in the truth, and there are many benefits there. It is truly an exceptional place, a place that I wish all Muslims could visit. You feel peace and purity there, it’s really a unique place.” – Karim Benzema
Embracing the Challenge
Benzema’s arrival at Al-Ittihad coincided with a promising start for the team in the current season. With a relatively unchanged lineup from the previous season and the addition of new players to strengthen the squad, Benzema believes that they have a strong team capable of achieving success.
“We had a good start to the season. The lineup hasn’t changed much from last season, which is a good thing, and with new players coming in to reinforce the team, we have a good squad. I am really surprised because we don’t see much about Saudi football in Europe, but now a lot more people are watching the league after the arrival of great names.” – Karim Benzema
Overcoming Injury
Benzema’s journey with Al-Ittihad hasn’t been without its challenges. He recently recovered from an injury that hindered his performance, but he is now feeling much better and is back to training at full capacity.
“I feel a significant improvement. I had been struggling with an injury, but now I am better and training at 100%. The recent matches have given me a good feeling and I have been able to play and contribute to the team gradually. The team is evolving, and so am I. That’s what matters the most, but the most important thing for me is to win trophies at the end of the season.” – Karim Benzema
Karim Benzema’s decision to join Al-Ittihad and embrace a new challenge in Saudi Arabia reflects his desire for growth and exploration beyond the familiar territories of European football.
His passion for the game, combined with the immense potential of Saudi football, has driven him to contribute to the rise of the sport in the country.
