Real Madrid, the Spanish football club, officially announced on Sunday morning that Karim Benzema will be leaving the team at the end of the season, concluding a remarkable 14-year journey. The 35-year-old French striker has reportedly reached an agreement with Al-Ittihad, the reigning Saudi Pro League champions, and is set to sign a two-year contract under the management of former Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo.
Benzema’s final league match for Real Madrid saw him score a crucial second-half penalty, securing a draw against Athletic Bilbao. This season, he recorded an impressive tally of 31 goals and six assists in 43 appearances across all competitions.
Having joined Real Madrid in 2009 from Lyon, his hometown club, Benzema leaves as the club’s second highest all-time goalscorer, with 354 goals in 658 appearances. Throughout his tenure, he lifted the LaLiga trophy on four occasions and claimed the prestigious Champions League title five times, contributing significantly to the club’s success.
In a statement, Real Madrid expressed their gratitude and affection for Benzema, acknowledging his exemplary conduct, professionalism, and representation of the club’s values. They emphasized that Benzema has earned the right to decide his future and hailed him as one of their greatest legends. The club described his football as magical and unique, solidifying his status as an iconic figure not only in Real Madrid but also in the world of football.
Real Madrid further announced an institutional act of homage and farewell to Benzema, scheduled to take place at Real Madrid Sport City on Tuesday, June 6, with the presence of club president Florentino Pérez.
With Benzema’s departure confirmed, speculation arises regarding his potential replacement. One name frequently mentioned is Harry Kane, the Tottenham Hotspur striker. However, Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti has remained coy about the club’s reported interest, stating that Kane is a great player of Tottenham and that respect must be given to the player and his current club.
Spanish football expert Alvaro Montero suggests that among fans and the press, there is a desire for Kylian Mbappe, although many consider it an impossible transfer. Recent discussions have centered around the possibility of Harry Kane joining Real Madrid, as he is an established striker who could seamlessly fit into the team. However, the financial aspect poses a challenge, as the rumored transfer fee for Kane is estimated to be around €100 million.
Real Madrid, mindful of their economic situation, has adopted a more cautious approach in recent years. With the imminent unveiling of the renovated Bernabeu stadium, the club aims to exercise financial prudence. As they plan for the future, their primary target remains Mbappe, despite the anticipated high cost of securing his services.
As Karim Benzema bids farewell to Real Madrid, his departure marks the end of an era filled with remarkable achievements and contributions to the club’s success. The spotlight now shifts to Real Madrid’s pursuit of a suitable replacement, with the names of Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappe generating significant interest among fans and experts alike.
