Karim Benzema Reportedly Considering Retirement at End of Season

 

Real Madrid legend Karim Benzema is reportedly contemplating retirement at the end of the current season after a challenging spell with Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad.

According to Relevo, the 36-year-old striker, who joined Al-Ittihad last year, has faced off-field challenges that have added strain to his time in Saudi Arabia. Despite the difficulties, Benzema has been impressive on the pitch, scoring 10 goals in 10 league appearances under coach and compatriot Laurent Blanc. He currently trails Aleksandar Mitrovic by just two goals for the top scorer position and is level with Cristiano Ronaldo.

Benzema, who is earning an eye-watering £86 million per year, has a contract with Al-Ittihad running until 2026. However, reports suggest the Saudi club would not oppose his early retirement as it would relieve them of a massive financial burden.

The former Real Madrid star has already started considering his future beyond playing football. It is reported that Real Madrid are eager to bring Benzema back to the club as a global ambassador, leveraging his strong ties to the Middle East.

Benzema's legacy at Real Madrid is unmatched. In a glittering 14-year career with Los Blancos, he scored 354 goals in 648 appearances and lifted 25 trophies, including five UEFA Champions League titles. His stellar 2021/22 season, in which he scored 44 goals in 46 matches, earned him the prestigious Ballon d'Or in 2022.

While Benzema's retirement would mark the end of an illustrious playing career, his next chapter may see him return to his beloved Real Madrid in a new role, cementing his enduring legacy in the football world.