Benzema becomes Saudi league's newest star after joining Al-Ittihad

Karim Benzema said goodbye to Real Madrid and hello to Al-Ittihad on Tuesday.

Hours after an emotional press conference in which he admitted it “hurt” to leave the Spanish club, the Ballon d’Or holder was officially unveiled by the Saudi Arabian champions.

The Frenchman put pen to paper on an initial two-year contract that includes an option for an additional season, reports transfer insider Fabrizio Romano. Benzema will earn almost €200 million per season, including commercial deals, Romano adds.

“I am excited to experience a new football league in a different country,” Benzema said. “I have been fortunate to achieve amazing things in my career and achieve everything I can in Spain and Europe. It now feels the time is right for a new challenge and project. Every time I’ve visited Saudi Arabia I’ve always felt such warmth and love from the fans and people. I am looking forward to joining my new teammates and, together with them, help take this amazing club and the game in Saudi Arabia to new levels.”

Reports last week indicated that Al-Ittihad first tabled a €400-million offer in January, similar to what Al Nassr presented to procure the services of the Frenchman’s former Real Madrid teammate, Cristiano Ronaldo.

Benzema, 35, voided a one-year extension clause in his Madrid contract to facilitate his move, according to Romano. Carlo Ancelotti, who urged the veteran superstar to retire at the Santiago Bernabeu, said Sunday he was surprised by the decorated forward’s decision to depart.

“I have coached one of the best in the world, not a forward, a complete footballer,” Ancelotti added. “A very friendly, humble, serious person. We can’t be happy he is going, but we have to respect his decision. What he has done at this club is legendary and unforgettable.”

Benzema scored his 354th – and final – goal for Los Blancos in Sunday’s season finale against Athletic Bilbao. Only Ronaldo, with 450, has more in club history.

The Frenchman leaves the Spanish capital having hoisted 25 major trophies over a remarkable 14-year spell, including five Champions Leagues, four La Liga titles, and the Copa del Rey on three occasions.