Karim Benzema talks about leaving Real Madrid

After having won everything with Real Madrid, where he shone for 14 consecutive seasons, Karim Benzema decided last summer to move to Saudi Arabian football to represent Al Ittihad.

A French international with 97 caps, the 36-year-old forward mentioned in an interview with the newspaper "Marca" that he left the Merengues at the ideal time.

"Some arrive, others leave; it will always be like this. It was the right moment. But of course, I look back and feel joy. Last season, they gave a certain sense of superiority, of good football, and that's why they won the Champions League and La Liga. Currently, I don't see a better team than Real Madrid," he stated.

Ballon d'Or winner in 2022, Karim Benzema also expressed his desire to help Al Ittihad improve on their performance in the 2023/24 season, when they finished fifth in the Saudi league.

"We have to do more and better than last season. Things didn't work out, but we have much better football to play well and win the league, which is the most important trophy for the club and the fans. I'm here, with my teammates, to win, and everyone should be aware of that," he assured.

The goal scorer also praised the Saudi league, which is becoming increasingly competitive. "Little by little, year after year, more players are coming, and the quality of the football is increasing bit by bit. All of this makes the Saudi league interesting, stronger, and of a higher level," he analyzed.

Benzema's departure from Real Madrid marked the end of an era, as he had been a central figure in the club's success over the past decade and a half. His leadership on and off the field, combined with his scoring prowess, made him a fan favorite and a critical asset to the team. During his time at Real Madrid, Benzema won numerous titles, including five Champions League trophies, four La Liga titles, and multiple domestic and international cups.

His move to Al Ittihad is seen as a significant boost for the Saudi club, which aims to leverage his experience and skills to climb higher in the league standings. Benzema's presence is also expected to attract more attention to the Saudi league, as high-profile players continue to join, enhancing the league's profile and competitive nature.

In his interview, Benzema emphasized his commitment to his new club and his determination to achieve success with Al Ittihad. He acknowledged the challenges ahead but remained optimistic about the team's potential to improve and compete for top honors.

As the new season approaches, fans of Al Ittihad and the broader football community are eager to see how Benzema will adapt to his new environment and what impact he will have on the Saudi league. His arrival is not only a testament to his enduring talent but also a reflection of the growing allure of football in the Middle East, as clubs in the region continue to invest in top-tier talent to enhance their competitiveness on the global stage.