\n
Karim Benzema is shaking up the Saudi football market once again. The Ballon d’Or-winning French striker has reached an agreement to become Al Hilal’s new signing, with Al Ittihad immediately joining Simone Inzaghi’s sporting project and confirming his position as the main contender for this season’s title. The move, completed in the past few hours, remains one of the most shocking transfers in the Championship. It’s not just because of Benzema’s presence, but also because of the competitive importance it gives to an Al Hilal team that is looking to establish itself as a great reference point in Asian and continental football.<\/p>\n
Why did Benzema leave Al Ittihad?<\/h2>\n
It all started when L’Equipe revealed that Benzema would never wear an Al Ittihad shirt again, upset by a renewal offer he considered disrespectful to his career. With six months remaining on his contract, his departure materialized quickly.<\/p>\n
Al Hilal’s participation in the operation has created tensions within the Saudi Pro League, particularly in the environment surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo, with perceptions of unequal treatment among clubs controlled by the Public Investment Fund. The numbers support this sentiment. Since 2023, Al Hilal has invested over 215 million euros more than Al Nasr, Al Ittihad and Al Ahli.<\/p>\n
How will this affect Cristiano Ronaldo?<\/h2>\n
Al Hilal currently lead the Saudi league with 47 points, just one point ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nasr. However, Benzema’s last three games with his new team have resulted in a string of draws, leaving them with valuable points, which could prompt a deal for the French striker.<\/p>\n
Second-placed Al Nasr are on a five-game winning streak, but Cristiano Ronaldo was absent from the last match due to dissatisfaction with the club. Al Nasr are in a serious situation due to internal friction, dissatisfaction with their star players and Benzema joining a rival team. Despite having top players such as the Portuguese star, Joao F\u00e9lix and Sadio Mane, they have yet to win their coveted title. Meanwhile, the stage is set. Benzema will play against Al Ittihad on February 19 and could face Cristiano Ronaldo in the Riyadh derby for the Saudi league title in a few weeks.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
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