OFFICIAL: Karim Benzema joins Al-Ittihad

Karim Benzema confirmed on Sunday that he will leave Real Madrid this summer after a spectacular 14-year career in the Spanish capital.

Later that day, Benzema scored his 354th goal for Real Madrid against Athletic Club, before the Santiago Bernabeu had the opportunity to pay respect to one of the club’s modern-day icons.

Since last week, Benzema has been extensively connected with a move to Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad, who have now made the move official, according to their social media pages.

Benzema has agreed to terms with Al-Ittihad on a three-year contract, joining former Real Madrid teammate Cristiano Ronaldo in moving to the Middle East. The two will meet again next season, with Ronaldo representing Al-Nassr.

Real Madrid must now find a replacement for Benzema, who was their only natural striker option in 2022/23. It will be a monumental undertaking, given that the Frenchman has been their talisman for the past few years.