Official: Karim Benzema leaves Real Madrid

The final call has been made. Karim Benzema has opted to leave Real Madrid on a free transfer at the conclusion of the season, after a magnificent 14-year career filled with numerous championships, according to the club.

“Karim Benzema came to our club in 2009, when he was only 21 years old, and has been a fundamental player in this golden age of our history,” said the official statement on the player.

Since the start of the week, when rumors about Saudi Arabia’s involvement surfaced, the Frenchman has had one foot out of the Santiago Bernabeu. Al-Ittihad has offered the player a two-year contract worth up to €400 million, plus extra perks.

Benzema took his time making his decision and even hinted at staying at Real Madrid, but it appears that Real Madrid were unable to persuade him to stay.

The statement also states that Benzema will be honored at a goodbye event in Madrid on Tuesday, June 6th. He will make his farewell appearance for Real Madrid today, when they host Athletic Club at home.