Benzema's Potential Departure from Real Madrid: Considering Move to Saudi Arabia in Summer 2023
According to sources including journalist Alfredo Matilla from Marca and Relevo, Karim Benzema is contemplating the possibility of leaving Real Madrid to join a Saudi Arabian team for the upcoming 2023 season.
Benzema's contract with Real Madrid is set to expire at the end of the current season. Head coach Carlo Ancelotti had previously hinted at the likelihood of the French striker staying at the Bernabeu for another year, and there were even reports of a verbal agreement between the two parties in the Spanish media.
In a stunning twist, it is rumored that Karim Benzema may follow in the footsteps of Cristiano Ronaldo and potentially leave Real Madrid to join a Saudi Arabian club for his football career. This prospect evokes a mix of excitement and curiosity, as fans wonder if history will repeat itself and witness another high-profile transfer to the captivating football landscape of Saudi Arabia.
However, an undisclosed Saudi Arabian club has shockingly presented Benzema with an immensely lucrative offer. Specifically, the superstar born in 1987 would receive an astonishing €200 million for a two-year contract (equivalent to €100 million per year). Notably, this exceptional package does not even include image rights and endorsements.
Furthermore, Middle Eastern countries implement a complete tax exemption policy for footballers, meaning that Benzema would not be required to pay any taxes on the substantial €100 million per season salary.
Football professionals in Saudi Arabia are making relentless efforts to attract top-tier talents and elevate the status of their national championship (Saudi Pro League). Earlier this year, Al Nassr successfully recruited Cristiano Ronaldo with a rewarding offer of €200 million per year (including bonuses, image rights, and endorsements).
Recently, powerhouse Al Hilal has also been rumored to be ready to roll out the red carpet and entice Lionel Messi with a staggering offer of €400 million per year.
During the 2022/23 season, Benzema contributed with 30 goals and 6 assists in 40 matches across all competitions for Real Madrid. However, he experienced a significant decline compared to the previous season, while the Bernabeu-based team had an unsuccessful campaign, relinquishing their titles in the Champions League and La Liga, only managing to secure the Copa del Rey.
Relevo emphasizes that the members of Real Madrid are sensing the impending departure of the 2022 Ballon d'Or nominee from the Bernabeu. Alongside eagerly awaiting the final decision of their beloved player, the "Royal Team" has initiated the search for a suitable replacement for Benzema in the upcoming summer transfer window.
According to the media, Harry Kane (Tottenham) stands as the top target for Real Madrid. Besides the Bernabeu-based club, Manchester United and Bayern Munich have also expressed significant interest in the English striker.
